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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos Recipe for Perfect Meal Prep Ideas

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This easy slow cooker chicken tacos recipe is a flavorful, hands-off meal perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep. Tender chicken infused with classic taco spices and a splash of lime juice makes a delicious and versatile dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium if possible
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 810 small flour or corn tortillas for serving

Instructions

  1. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 3 garlic cloves. Measure out all your spices and liquids so they’re ready to go.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
  3. Place the 2 pounds of chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
  4. Pour 1 cup tomato sauce and 1/2 cup chicken broth over the chicken and onion.
  5. Evenly distribute the mixed spices over the chicken and sauce. Gently stir if desired, or leave as is.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and easy to shred.
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the drained black beans if using.
  8. Use two forks or shredding claws to shred the chicken inside the cooker.
  9. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice for brightness.
  10. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel until soft.
  11. Spoon shredded chicken onto warm tortillas and add your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, diced onion, or avocado slices.

Notes

If the sauce is too thin after cooking, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on high with the lid off for 10-15 minutes to thicken before combining again. Use fresh garlic and spices for best flavor. Shred chicken while warm for easier shredding. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness. Slow cooker liners help with cleanup.

Nutrition

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