Craving delicious tacos but short on time and ingredients? This recipe for 3-ingredient slow cooker chicken tacos is your answer! It's unbelievably easy, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times – this dish lets you enjoy restaurant-quality tacos with minimal effort.
What You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Choose quality chicken for the best flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Your preferred brand will do just fine. Look for options with minimal added sugar if you prefer.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the chicken as it cooks.
Instructions:
- Combine: Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. You can return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to keep it warm while you prepare the rest of your meal.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions people have about making this simple recipe, along with their answers:
Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Yes! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the easiest to work with, you can also use chicken thighs. Chicken thighs will be slightly more tender and flavorful, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Bone-in chicken will also work, but increase the cooking time accordingly.
What kind of taco seasoning should I use?
You can use any brand of taco seasoning you prefer. Many grocery stores offer a wide variety of options, including low-sodium and organic varieties. Experiment to find your favorite!
What are some good toppings for these tacos?
The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, cheese, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and cilantro. Get creative and add your favorite toppings!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeknights.
Can I freeze this shredded chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked and shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw completely before reheating and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some spice: For a spicier taco, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker along with the seasoning and broth.
- Citrus boost: A squeeze of lime juice at the end adds a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Garlic and onion: For extra flavor, add a minced clove of garlic and a finely chopped small onion to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
- Slow cooker size: Adjust cooking time depending on the size of your slow cooker. Larger slow cookers may require slightly longer cooking times.
This simple 3-ingredient slow cooker chicken taco recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease and deliciousness make it a perfect go-to meal for any night of the week. Enjoy!
