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Easy 5-Ingredient Crockpot Chicken Tacos

easy 5-ingredient crockpot chicken tacos - featured image

Tender, juicy shredded chicken simmered in salsa and taco seasoning, served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 16 ounces salsa (medium-heat chunky recommended)
  • 1 packet (or 3 tablespoons) taco seasoning
  • 810 corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Pour the entire jar of salsa over the chicken, spreading it around to mostly cover the chicken.
  3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the salsa and chicken. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily.
  5. Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir the shredded meat back into the salsa mixture and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
  7. Assemble the tacos by spooning the shredded chicken onto each tortilla and adding desired toppings.

Notes

For best results, use a thick, chunky salsa you enjoy eating. Frozen chicken works—just add an extra hour of cooking time on low. To thicken the sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes or stir in a cornstarch slurry. Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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