Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken (Print Version)

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

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Sauce & Seasonings

02 - 1 cup tomato salsa (mild or medium)
03 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - ½ teaspoon salt
09 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Tacos

10 - 12 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed

→ Optional Toppings

11 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
12 - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
13 - ½ cup sour cream
14 - 1 avocado, sliced
15 - ½ cup diced tomatoes
16 - ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
17 - Lime wedges, for serving

# How To:

01 - Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker base.
02 - In a mixing bowl, blend salsa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
03 - Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated.
04 - Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours until chicken is tender and shreds easily.
05 - Remove chicken from cooker and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with remaining sauce.
06 - Warm tortillas separately until pliable.
07 - Fill each warmed tortilla with shredded chicken and desired toppings. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare with a slow cooker
  • Gluten-free option available
02 -
  • Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free meal
  • Leftover chicken is great for burrito bowls or quesadillas
03 -
  • Use hot salsa or add cayenne pepper for extra spice
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter topping
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