Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat
Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes
This easy and flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat is perfect for taco night or meal prep. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy tender, seasoned chicken ready to be enjoyed in tacos, burritos, or on a salad.
This Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat is a game changer for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe that everyone in the family will love!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken infused with bold taco spices
- Versatile for tacos, burritos, nachos, or salads
- Easy to prepare for meal prep or gatherings
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking to simplify your weekly meals, this Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat is a fantastic choice. It can be made in bulk and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for easy access throughout the week. Simply portion it out into meal prep containers along with your favorite sides, and you’ll have delicious, satisfying meals ready to go at a moment's notice.
This recipe is not just about convenience; it's also about flavor. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the spices and flavors, resulting in a dish that is both tender and rich in taste. Whether you enjoy it in tacos, burritos, or on top of salads, each meal will feel like a treat.
A Crowd-Pleaser
Hosting a gathering? This Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat is sure to impress your guests. It's incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event. Set it in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you entertain your friends and family.
With its vibrant flavors and versatile nature, this dish can cater to a variety of tastes. Serve it with an array of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro, so everyone can customize their meal to their liking. It's a fun, interactive way to enjoy dinner together.
Customizable and Flexible
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different spices or add additional ingredients like bell peppers or corn to suit your taste preferences. You can also adjust the level of heat by choosing a spicy taco seasoning or adding jalapeños for an extra kick.
Not only can you use this chicken taco meat in classic tacos, but it also works beautifully in burritos, nachos, or even as a topping for a hearty salad. The possibilities are endless, making it a great base for all sorts of delicious meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken Taco Meat
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Use these ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Add Chicken and Seasoning
Place the chicken breasts on top of the mixture, and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the juices.
Serve
Serve the chicken taco meat in tacos, burritos, or over a salad. Enjoy!
Make sure to enjoy this delicious meal with your favorite toppings!
Storing and Reheating
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat over several days. Once cooled, transfer the chicken meat into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the portions. Just ensure that the chicken is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can simply warm it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in a slow cooker until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth while reheating can help restore moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken taco meat is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various serving options. For a classic taco night, set up a taco bar with soft and hard shells, fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and cheese, and let everyone build their own perfect taco.
Alternatively, try serving the chicken over a bed of greens for a light and refreshing salad. Top it with your favorite dressing and additional veggies for a wholesome meal. It also makes a great filling for burritos or as a topping for nachos, providing a deliciously satisfying experience.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your chicken turns out perfectly tender, avoid overcooking it. While slow cooking is forgiving, leaving the chicken in too long can lead to dryness. Stick to the recommended cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer if you're unsure—the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Additionally, using high-quality taco seasoning can make a significant difference in flavor. Whether you choose a store-bought mix or make your own, opt for a blend that suits your taste preferences. This small detail can elevate the dish, making it even more enjoyable for you and your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What sides go well with chicken taco meat?
Consider serving with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve.
→ Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer.
Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat
This easy and flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Taco Meat is perfect for taco night or meal prep. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy tender, seasoned chicken ready to be enjoyed in tacos, burritos, or on a salad.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Fast Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Taco Meat
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Place the chicken breasts on top of the mixture, and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the juices.
Serve the chicken taco meat in tacos, burritos, or over a salad. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g