This Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos recipe makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Just pop in chicken, salsa, and spices, and let your slow cooker do all the work!
I love how tender the chicken gets while cooking, and it tastes amazing in corn tortillas. Add your favorite toppings and voilà—you’ve got a tasty meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a different protein, try boneless thighs for a bit more flavor or use shredded tofu for a vegetarian option.
Salsa: I enjoy using a medium salsa for a little kick, but you can adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot. If you prefer a fresher taste, homemade salsa is a great choice!
Taco Seasoning: A packet is convenient, but I love making my own. Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder for a personalized blend. If you’re watching sodium, be sure to pick a low-sodium version.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are my favorite for their authentic taste. Whole wheat tortillas work well too. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn or gluten-free wraps.
Why Is Shredding Chicken in the Crockpot Important?
Shredding the chicken in the crockpot is key to soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sauce. It helps to mix the seasoning into the chicken, making every bite flavorful!
- After cooking, use two forks to pull apart the chicken gently.
- Mix it with the juices in the pot, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
- This step makes sure that each taco has a burst of flavor!
Take your time with this. The more thoroughly you mix, the tastier your tacos will be!
Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa (fresh or jarred, mild or medium)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or about 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Corn tortillas or whole wheat tortillas, warmed
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, lime wedges, low-fat shredded cheese, Greek yogurt or light sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for cooking. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal ready when you come home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are spread out and not piled up too much to cook evenly.
2. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. This will flavor the meat beautifully as it cooks.
3. Add Salsa and Broth:
Pour in the salsa and chicken broth (or water) over the chicken. If you like, add the chopped onion and minced garlic for extra flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the chicken should be tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it well with the juices and sauce to soak up all that flavor.
6. Prepare the Tortillas:
While the chicken is shredding, warm your corn or whole wheat tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side or in the microwave.
7. Assemble Your Tacos:
Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken and pile on your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, cheese, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or light sour cream.
8. Optional Lime Zing:
For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos just before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your easy, healthy, and flavorful crockpot chicken tacos!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it on high for at least 4-5 hours instead of low to ensure it cooks through safely. Thawing is not necessary, but check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want more heat, try using hot salsa instead of mild or add diced jalapeños and red pepper flakes to your taco seasoning. You can also top your tacos with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. When ready to use, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep everything the night before. Simply place the chicken, salsa, and seasonings in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, transfer it to the slow cooker base and cook as directed for a tasty dinner when you return!
