These shredded chicken tacos are super tasty and easy to make! Juicy chicken, wrapped in soft tortillas, topped with your favorite goodies like cheese, salsa, and avocado.
Perfect for any day, they’re quick to whip up and always a hit. I love making a big batch and enjoying leftovers for lunch—it’s like a tasty party in your mouth! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook time. You can also try thighs for a juicier option or use rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt for a lighter taste.
Taco Seasoning: Taco seasoning adds a great blend of spices. If you don’t have any, you can mix chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder to create a quick substitute. Adjust the quantity based on your taste!
Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for their flavor and texture, but flour tortillas are also yummy. If you need a gluten-free option, look for corn tortillas that are specifically labeled as gluten-free.
How Do I Get the Perfect Shredded Chicken?
Getting tender, shreddable chicken is key for this recipe. The slow cooker is your best friend here. Cooking the chicken slowly allows it to absorb all the flavors and become super tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Make sure the chicken is submerged in the broth!
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and use two forks to shred it. It should fall apart easily!
- Mix the shredded chicken back with the broth in the cooker. This keeps it moist and packed with flavor.
Remember, patience pays off. Don’t rush the slow cooking, and you’ll have delicious shredded chicken that’s perfect for your tacos!
How to Make Shredded Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. You’ll enjoy delicious tacos in no time with very little hands-on effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Cover and cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will be fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
2. Shredding the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker using tongs. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, mixing it with the flavorful broth. This will keep the chicken moist and tasty!
3. Preparing the Tortillas and Assembling the Tacos:
While the chicken is finishing up, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable and warm. Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take a warm tortilla and place a generous amount of the shredded chicken on it. Top with diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onions, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to add as much or as little of each topping as you like!
4. Enjoying Your Tacos:
Serve the tacos immediately and let everyone customize their own to their liking. Enjoy each bite of these delicious and easy shredded chicken tacos!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, just make sure to increase the cooking time slightly. On low, it may take around 8-10 hours, and on high, it may take about 5-6 hours. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own taco seasoning using a mix of spices: combine 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Adjust to taste for more heat or flavor!
Can I Store Leftover Shredded Chicken?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage! Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the shredded chicken or topping the tacos with a spicy salsa. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper into the taco seasoning if you’re making your own!
