Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Tender, flavorful shredded chicken cooked in a slow cooker and served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings—perfect for an easy and satisfying family meal.

I have made this recipe many times for my family's weeknight dinners and it never disappoints.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Sauce & Seasonings: 1 cup (240 ml) tomato salsa (mild or medium as preferred), 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Tacos: 12 small corn or flour tortillas warmed
• Optional Toppings: 1 cup (100 g) shredded lettuce, 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend), ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1 avocado sliced, ½ cup (80 g) diced tomatoes, ¼ cup (15 g) chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

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Step 1:

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2:

In a bowl, mix together the salsa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3:

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.

Step 4:

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 5:

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the cooker, stirring to combine with the sauce.

Step 6:

Warm the tortillas. Fill each with a generous portion of shredded chicken and your choice of toppings.

Step 7:

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe brings my family together for casual dinners and celebrations alike.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of Mexican rice or black beans to round out the meal.

Variations

Add jalapeños for heat or swap chicken for pulled pork for a tasty twist.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

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Soft, absorbent towels keep counters dry while cooking, wiping spills, and handling dishes during everyday recipe prep.

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Enjoy these shredded chicken tacos as a flavorful and easy meal any night of the week.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What cuts of chicken work best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well, with thighs offering a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?

Yes, using mild or medium salsa changes the heat. Add cayenne pepper for extra spice or use a milder salsa for a gentler flavor.

→ How long should I slow cook the chicken?

Cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender enough to shred easily.

→ What tortillas are recommended?

Small corn or flour tortillas can be used, with corn tortillas offering a gluten-free option.

→ What toppings complement the chicken best?

Fresh shredded lettuce, cheese blends, sour cream or Greek yogurt, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and cilantro enhance the dish's flavors.

→ Can leftovers be repurposed?

Leftover shredded chicken works great in burrito bowls, salads, quesadillas, or tacos for quick meals.