Crock-Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos (Print Version)

Slow-cooked tender shredded chicken with spices, served with warm tortillas and fresh toppings.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks
02 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Spices

05 - 1 ½ tsp chili powder
06 - 1 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
08 - ½ tsp dried oregano
09 - ½ tsp salt
10 - ¼ tsp black pepper

→ Sauce

11 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
12 - 1 tbsp tomato paste
13 - 1 tbsp lime juice

→ To Serve

14 - 12 small corn or flour tortillas
15 - Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomato, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges

# Directions:

01 - Place chicken thighs or drumsticks into the slow cooker base.
02 - Scatter the finely chopped onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
03 - Combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl and sprinkle evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
04 - Pour diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and chicken broth over the seasoned ingredients.
05 - Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
06 - Remove chicken from the pot, discard bones, then shred the meat using two forks.
07 - Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine thoroughly with the sauce. Mix in the lime juice.
08 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until warm and pliable.
09 - Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken mixture and garnish with preferred toppings. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy prep and hands-off cooking
  • Budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd
02 -
  • For gluten-free tacos, use corn tortillas and double-check all packaged ingredients.
  • Chicken breasts can be used for a lighter version; reduce cooking time by 1 hour for best texture.
03 -
  • For extra smoky flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the crock-pot.
  • Leftover chicken makes excellent quesadillas or burrito bowls.
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