Description
This Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos recipe provides a flavorful and easy way to prepare versatile shredded chicken using either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Infused with a blend of spices and salsa, this protein-packed dish is perfect for tacos, taco bowls, salads, or lettuce wraps, making it ideal for quick, family-friendly dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken breast or thighs
- 1 cup salsa (any kind)
- ½ cup water
Spices
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander (optional but recommended)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (use more for extra spice)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- Taco shells or rice/cauliflower rice for taco bowls or lettuce leaves for wraps
- Favorite taco toppings such as diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeno, fresh cilantro, olives, avocado, hot sauce, fresh salsa, lime wedge, shredded cheese, and sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare and Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken, salsa, water, and all spices into your slow cooker or Instant Pot to start the cooking process.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook on high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks to achieve a perfect texture for tacos.
- Simmer in Slow Cooker: Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and cook on low for another 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Instant Pot Method: Lock the lid, set the vent to sealing, and cook on the Poultry or High Pressure setting for 14-16 minutes, depending on chicken thickness.
- Natural Release: Allow a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes, then release any remaining steam manually.
- Shred and Reduce Liquid: Shred chicken directly in the pot; if the mixture is too watery, use the sauté function for 5-8 minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken in taco shells, taco bowls, salads, or lettuce wraps with your favorite taco toppings.
Notes
- This recipe offers flexibility by allowing preparation in either a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, catering to different time constraints.
- The seasoning blend can easily be adjusted to suit your preferred spice level, especially by varying the cayenne pepper.
- The shredded chicken is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways including tacos, salads, and wraps.
- Minimal prep time makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces shredded chicken
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 76 mg
