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    Home » Recipes » Chicken

    Crock Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

    First Published: October 6, 2021 . Last Modified: September 29, 2022 lisa46 Comments This post may contain affiliate links

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    Crock Pot Chicken Tacos is a go-to meal in our house on any night of the week. Slow cooker shredded chicken for tacos can also be used in enchiladas, casseroles, and salads, so it's a versatile meal that the whole family will love, and it practically cooks itself!

    Crock pot chicken tacos on a plate

    It's Shredded Chicken Taco Night

    It doesn't have to be Taco Tuesday for my family to want tacos! Crock pot chicken tacos are perfect for a party, game watching, or just a nice easy weeknight dinner any night of the week.  Get out your crockpot or slow cooker, and with minimal prep, dinner will be ready. 

    I made these shredded chicken tacos the other night, and while they were cooking, I also was on FaceBook, doing laundry and setting the table. This flavorful chicken taco recipe practically cooks itself. Everything goes in the pot, and a few hours later, you have a great meal.

    colorful Mexican chicken taco

    Ingredients Needed for Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

    • Chicken – I like to use boneless skinless chicken thighs because they are inexpensive, flavorful and come out juicy and tender every time. You can use skinless chicken breasts if you prefer.
    • Diced Tomatoes – Diced tomatoes with chilis add flavor and a little bit of heat. Fire roasted tomatoes with chilis also work well here. You can also use regular diced tomatoes and a small can of mild green chiles. If you don't like chunky tomatoes, you can substitute tomato sauce instead. Make use of what you have on hand, just avoid tomatoes that have italian seasoning added!
    • Spices – Chili powder and cumin will give this chicken a classic Mexican flavor while salt and black pepper brings together and enhances all of the flavors.
    • Cilantro – In my opinion you can't have Mexican food without fresh cilantro. If you aren't a fan you can skip it but it makes the flavor amazing.
    • Tortillas - Use corn or flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are a good option if you are looking to make a gluten free dinner. Both soft and hard taco shells work.

    See recipe card below for exact amounts and full instructions.

    the inside of a taco

    Optional Shredded Chicken Taco Toppings

    I have so many favorite taco toppings that sometimes it is hard to choose. Here are a few of my family's favorite toppings.

    • Black Beans and Corn Salsa
    • Super Easy Mexican Guacamole 
    • Three Minute Blender Salsa
    • Chopped lettuce, tomatoes, avocados, cilantro, lime wedges and onions
    • Sour cream
    • Pickled Jalapenos
    • Shredded Cheese - Cheddar, pepperjack or some type of Mexican cheese works well

    Shredded Chicken for Tacos and More

    The Mexican chicken filling is a perfect way to stuff tacos, but you could also make quesadillas, burritos, enchiladas or even burrito bowls. If you are watching carbs, this delicious chicken can go on top of a taco salad too. While tacos are my family's favorite, there is so much versatility in this simple recipe.

    Storage/ Leftovers

    Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in your fridge. The taco filling can be made in advance then reheated in the microwave or in a large skillet on the stove. It's a great way to get a quick week night dinner on the table. I also like to make this easy recipe for a party as there is just a few minutes of prep. It's a great way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. The delicious tacos can be served with a toppings bar and you are set for a crowd.

    Serving Suggestions

    Serve these easy chicken tacos with refried beans, tortilla chips or plain rice. You could also get a bit fancier and make Cilantro Lime Rice or an Avocado Tomato and Arugula Salad.

    Or make this easy Mexican Beef recipe and have two types of meats to make a fun taco bar.

    Here are more side dishes when you are wondering what to serve with tacos.

    Equipment

    I prefer a basic Crock- Pot Manual Slow Cooker to cook all my slow cooker recipes in. They are economical and I've had several that last years and years. If you want something a little more sophisticated and programmable, this Crock- Pot Cook and Carry Slow Cooker is a great option also. I am not into a lot of bells and whistles but if you are, there are so many great choices available.

    More Crock Pot Recipes You'll Love

    • Sunday Pot Roast in the Crock Pot
    • Slow Cooker Shredded Beef and Beer Sliders
    • Mongolian Short Ribs
    • Crock Pot Italian Porketta Roast

    If you like Crock Pot Chicken Tacos, please leave a 5-star rating.

    RECIPE

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    5 from 5 votes

    Crock Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos

    Juicy and flavorful chicken thighs are seasoned, cooked and shredded.
    Prep Time5 minutes mins
    Cook Time6 hours hrs
    Total Time6 hours hrs 5 minutes mins
    Course: Dinner Entree
    Cuisine: Mexican
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 151kcal

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of any extra fat
    • 14 ounces can, diced tomatoes with chiles
    • 2 teaspoons chili powder
    • 1 teaspoons ground cumin
    • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
    • salt and pepper to taste
    • tortillas, for serving

    Instructions

    • Put chicken and tomatoes in the crock pot. Sprinkle with chili powder and cumin.
    • Cook on high for 4 to 6 hours or low 6 to 8 hours.
    • Cook until meat can be shredded easily with fork. Add cilantro and salt and pepper to taste at the end of cooking.
    • Serve with tortillas and desired toppings. (Calories below do not include optional toppings or tortillas).

    Nutrition

    Calories: 151kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 73mg | Sodium: 159mg | Potassium: 640mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 520IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 2mg

    Thanks for stopping by! Subscribe to Jersey Girl Cooks if you would like more recipes and cooking tips sent to your email. You can also order my Super Easy Cookbook for Beginners and follow me on social media - Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

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    Comments

    1. Sara says

      January 29, 2009 at 1:09 am

      I love my crockpot, will have to give this a try!

      Reply
    2. Laurie says

      January 29, 2009 at 2:02 am

      This is a perfect recipe for busy moms! I'm always afraid to cook chicken in the Crockpot because the first time I did (like 15 years ago), it wasn't good. Might be time to dust off that fear.

      I wanted to thank you, Lisa, for the soups that came in the mail from your contest! I've been warning my family not to touch them for two days. I want to take a photo to post on my blog and it has been so dark and dreary here that I'm waiting for a brighter day.

      I love your boy scout cake and the cars are perfect! I've never had a boy scout, but I know about the Pinewood Derby.

      Reply
    3. Mari says

      January 29, 2009 at 7:05 am

      This looks so good, plus I love crockpot recipes! Thanks!

      Reply
    4. Donna-FFW says

      January 29, 2009 at 7:29 am

      I love the fact that this is a make it and leave it type of meal. Sounds wonderful and very versatile.

      Reply
    5. Culinarywannabe says

      January 29, 2009 at 7:54 am

      Crockpots are the best! Oh I bet this would be delicious in enchiladas or even over a big plate of nachos!

      Reply
    6. Patsyk says

      January 29, 2009 at 9:20 am

      Great idea for the Super Bowl party!

      Reply
    7. Aggie says

      January 29, 2009 at 9:30 am

      Oh great recipe Lisa!!! I love having good crock pot recipes on hand! Looks yum!

      Reply
    8. Mary says

      January 29, 2009 at 9:46 am

      Lisa, this lkooks good. I'll have to give it a try.

      Reply
    9. Jeena says

      January 29, 2009 at 10:15 am

      These look great and have all the flavours that I love. 🙂

      Reply
    10. kat says

      January 29, 2009 at 10:49 am

      That looks like a great filling! I'm hosting the Super Bowl too with some chicken wings & pizza then everyone else is bringing dips

      Reply
    11. Maria says

      January 29, 2009 at 10:56 am

      Perfect for the big game!!

      Reply
    12. Michele says

      January 29, 2009 at 12:16 pm

      Seems easy and delicious! I wonder if the breasts would be too dry. My honey does not like dark meat chicken.

      Reply
    13. Cathy says

      January 29, 2009 at 12:28 pm

      Oh, how I wish that I saw this post 4 hours ago! I actually googled "slow cooker chicken tacos" this morning, but didn't find anything that wowed me, so I ended up throwing some frozen chicken into the crock pot with some salsa and Rotel tomatoes. Next time I am going to make these -- this is exactly what I was looking for!

      Reply
    14. Allie says

      January 29, 2009 at 12:31 pm

      Good luck with the contest I think you have a winner here!

      Reply
    15. Pam says

      January 29, 2009 at 12:57 pm

      The chicken sounds delicious. I love making shredded meat for my Mexican meals.

      Reply
    16. That Girl says

      January 29, 2009 at 2:12 pm

      When I see recipes like this I'm always ashamed at how little I use my crock pot

      Reply
    17. The Blonde Duck says

      January 29, 2009 at 3:01 pm

      I am so excited about this. You have no idea!

      Reply
    18. Clumbsy Cookie says

      January 29, 2009 at 3:23 pm

      I love how thinly shreded that chicken is! It made me crave mexican food!

      Reply
    19. Bridgett says

      January 29, 2009 at 5:05 pm

      I'm coming to your house for Superbowl, this looks delicious!

      Reply
    20. Mrs. L says

      January 29, 2009 at 5:17 pm

      I am so loving anything crockpotable these days as I seem to have no time to really cook! Thanks for the recipe.

      Reply
    21. Lucy says

      January 29, 2009 at 6:31 pm

      This looks so good!!! As well as my kitchen is equipped, I do not own a crockpot! Just nervous about leaving it going while at work ;(

      Reply
    22. Anonymous says

      January 29, 2009 at 7:09 pm

      Hey Lisa! I was looking forward to this one. I know that this is one recipe I can get everyone to eat. I love one pot wonders! Cousin Tracey

      Reply
    23. Priscilla says

      January 29, 2009 at 9:20 pm

      I will be making this for sure, it looks too good to pass up!

      Reply
    24. Peter M says

      January 29, 2009 at 11:23 pm

      Ahh, the ever versatile slow cooker...rendering everything flaky and tender.

      These look fab & I'm hungry again.

      Reply
    25. Kaitlin says

      January 29, 2009 at 11:38 pm

      omg...these look SO good!

      Reply
    26. Mila says

      January 29, 2009 at 11:57 pm

      Lisa, great minds must think alike! I was going to do carnitas in the crockpot for Super Bowl Sunday! This looks delish! And what a coincidence, next week I am cooking all latin food, how very convenient! 🙂

      Reply
    27. Emily says

      January 30, 2009 at 3:46 am

      Ohhh man. I love tacos. These look great! You know what the best part about tacos? Putting sour cream on them. This is a fairly recent discovery for me.

      Reply
      • Maryina says

        December 16, 2022 at 12:01 pm

        Yes, I love tacos with my sour cream! 😃

        Reply
    28. Anne says

      January 30, 2009 at 1:25 pm

      Awesome! They had to be some reallllly good tacos!

      Reply
    29. Jennifer says

      January 30, 2009 at 2:25 pm

      Lisa,
      I have a great and healthy Superbowl Snack-a-thon going on all day today.
      http://savorthethyme.blogspot.com/

      Reply
    30. Debbie says

      January 30, 2009 at 2:27 pm

      Great idea...I have to try this!

      Reply
    31. Katrina says

      January 30, 2009 at 4:41 pm

      Looks great, Lisa! Love the crockpot.

      Reply
    32. ttfn300 says

      January 30, 2009 at 11:10 pm

      gotta love the crockpot, these look fabulous 🙂

      Reply
    33. Tanya says

      February 01, 2009 at 11:51 am

      Oh this looks great! I love anything that's easy and fast, but still delicious.

      Reply
    34. alexandra's kitchen says

      February 01, 2009 at 12:37 pm

      i love braised chicken in tacos. this sounds like a perfect dish for tonight's festivities ... or any night's festivities that is.

      Reply
    35. Dawn says

      February 01, 2009 at 6:45 pm

      I bet this smells wonderful cooking away. There are many uses for this in terms of leftovers, if there are any left over. lol

      Reply
    36. Amanda says

      February 01, 2009 at 10:19 pm

      Yum these look fabulous!!

      Reply
    37. Annie says

      February 01, 2009 at 11:18 pm

      I really have to get a crock pot... I can't believe all the great recipes I miss out on, including this one. YUM!

      Reply
    38. Erica says

      February 02, 2009 at 12:29 am

      This looks so good! I love crockpot meals and mexican so this is def for me. Perfect for the superbowl! Good luck in the contest!

      Reply
    39. Rosie says

      February 02, 2009 at 12:03 pm

      I do like my crockpot Lisa wouldn't be without it now!! This sounds a perfect recipe for my next cook-out with my crockpot!!

      Rosie x

      Reply
    40. Anonymous says

      September 28, 2009 at 4:54 pm

      I made this Friday night. I love new crock pot recipes and this did not disappoint! LOVED it!! Thank you for sharing.

      Reply
    41. Jessie says

      October 10, 2021 at 11:56 pm

      5 stars
      This was perfect for dinner tonight it was a crowd pleaser for the game night crew we had over. This will be a regular for dinner in this house.

      Reply
    42. Anjali says

      October 11, 2021 at 1:45 am

      5 stars
      I love crock pot recipes and these chicken tacos turned out great! The chicken was super tender and flavorful and I loved how easy the prep was! Yum!

      Reply
    43. Mandy says

      October 11, 2021 at 2:19 am

      5 stars
      These look great, we love tacos in our household!

      Reply
    44. Natalie says

      October 11, 2021 at 6:50 am

      5 stars
      That was so good! My family loved these tacos. And they are super easy to make. This recipe is definitely a keeper. Thanks!

      Reply
    45. Connie Moser says

      August 11, 2024 at 8:51 pm

      5 stars
      I love this recipe! I make it almost every Monday so I can have the leftovers throughout the week. It's great to have to on my salad for lunch.

      Reply

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    Hi, I'm Lisa

    I love creating recipes and cooking for my family and friends. It's great to bring everyone to my kitchen to talk, laugh and eat. I also like to spread my love for cooking to others. So grab an apron and let's do it together. I promise my recipes will be easy and delicious!

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