Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken (Printer-friendly)

Savory shredded chicken cooked slowly with spices, perfect in warm tortillas topped with fresh ingredients.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.5 pounds 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 Make It:

01 - Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together tomato salsa, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
04 - Cover and cook in the slow cooker on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
05 - Remove chicken from slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
06 - Heat tortillas until warm and pliable.
07 - Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and desired toppings. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Easy to prepare with minimal effort
  • Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free options available
02 -
  • For a spicier version, use hot salsa or add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Leftover chicken can be used in burrito bowls, salads, or quesadillas
03 -
  • Use fresh lime juice over the top just before serving to brighten flavors
  • Warm tortillas wrapped in a clean cloth keep them soft and pliable
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