Are you looking for a simple yet delicious meal that will impress your family? Look no further than this crock pot chicken tacos recipe! With minimal prep time and the ability to let your slow cooker do the work, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready to fill your tacos. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 8 small flour or corn tortillas
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Avocado and lime wedges, for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 tacos) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 8g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
3. Pour the salsa over the seasoned chicken.
4. Add the rinsed black beans, corn, bell pepper, and onion on top.
5. Cover the crock pot with its lid.
6. Set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
8. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce and vegetables.
9. Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave.
10. Serve the chicken mixture in tortillas, garnished with cilantro, avocado, and lime.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor. Additionally, use homemade taco seasoning to control the spice level, and opt for whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
Serving and Pairings
These chicken tacos can be served with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh garden salad. Don’t forget to add toppings like cheese, sour cream, or pico de gallo for an extra flavor boost.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Use enough liquid; if it’s too dry, add more salsa.
– Don’t skip the seasoning for flavor.
– Ensure the lid is on tightly during cooking.
– Adjust cooking time based on your crock pot’s settings.
Helpful Tips
– For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
– Use a liner for easy cleanup.
– Customize toppings to your preference.
– Serve with a variety of salsas for different flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in the crock pot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to cook it on high for 4-5 hours instead of low, to ensure it reaches safe temperatures.
What toppings go well with chicken tacos?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, and jalapeños. Customize based on your taste!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken before cooking. You can also use a spicier salsa.
What sides pair well with chicken tacos?
Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, or tortilla chips with salsa make excellent sides to complement your tacos.
Conclusion
This crock pot chicken tacos recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos are sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy the ease of slow cooking and the delicious results that come with it!
Crock Pot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Avocado and lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the salsa over the seasoned chicken.
- Add the rinsed black beans, corn, bell pepper, and onion on top.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid.
- Set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
- Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce and vegetables.
- Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave.
- Serve the chicken mixture in tortillas, garnished with cilantro, avocado, and lime.
