Ingredients list
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup of salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Step-by-step instructions
Step-by-step instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Step 2: Add seasoning and liquids
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts. If you’re using homemade taco seasoning, adjust the amount to your taste. Next, pour the salsa over the chicken, followed by the chicken broth. The broth helps keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor.
- Step 3: Add aromatics
Scatter the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green chilies over the chicken. These ingredients will infuse the chicken with a rich, savory flavor as it cooks.
- Step 4: Slow cook the chicken
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred when it’s done. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time.
- Step 5: Shred the chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the crock pot. The chicken will easily pull apart and absorb all the flavorful juices in the pot. Stir in the lime juice at this point to brighten up the flavors.
- Step 6: Warm the tortillas
While the chicken is resting in the crock pot, warm your tortillas. You can heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
- Step 7: Assemble the tacos
To assemble, spoon the shredded chicken onto each tortilla. Be generous with the filling, but leave enough room for your favorite toppings. Add any optional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Serving suggestions
When it comes to serving your chicken tacos, there are plenty of ways to elevate the experience and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to help you get the most out of this delicious dish:
- Classic taco bar: Set up a taco bar with all the toppings laid out in small bowls. This allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking. Include options like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. You can also add some pickled jalapeños or hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat.
- Side dishes: Pair your chicken tacos with classic Mexican sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or black beans. A fresh corn salad or a tangy coleslaw can also complement the flavors of the tacos beautifully. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette.
- Make it a taco bowl: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, skip the tortillas and serve the shredded chicken over a bed of lettuce or cauliflower rice. Top with your favorite taco toppings and a drizzle of salsa or sour cream for a satisfying taco bowl.
- Leftover ideas: If you have any leftover chicken, it can be repurposed in a variety of ways. Use it to make chicken quesadillas, burritos, or even a taco salad. The chicken also freezes well, so you can save it for a quick meal later in the week.
- Drinks: To round out your meal, consider serving your tacos with a refreshing drink. A cold Mexican beer, a classic margarita, or even a non-alcoholic agua fresca (like watermelon or hibiscus) would pair perfectly with the flavors of the chicken tacos.
With these serving suggestions, you can turn a simple crock pot chicken taco recipe into a full-fledged taco night that everyone will enjoy!