Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a delicious and effortless way to prepare a tasty meal. Perfect for taco night or meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy, making it perfect for tacos, burritos, or even as a topping for nachos.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty spices
- Hands-off cooking with the slow cooker
- Versatile filling for tacos, burritos, or salads
The Perfect Taco Night Essential
Taco night is a cherished tradition in many households, and this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling takes the stress out of preparing a satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful dish that everyone will love. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the evening with family and friends.
The combination of tender chicken, zesty spices, and fresh vegetables makes this filling not only delicious but also customizable. You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to create a taco experience that suits your taste buds perfectly.
Meal Prep Made Simple
One of the standout features of this chicken taco filling is its versatility for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for lunches or quick dinners. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy a flavorful meal without the fuss.
This recipe allows you to mix and match your meals. Use the chicken filling in tacos one day, then transform it into a burrito bowl for lunch the next day. The possibilities are endless, making it a fantastic addition to any meal prep routine.
Customizable Ingredients
One of the joys of making your own taco filling is the ability to customize the ingredients to fit your preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the slow cooker. On the other hand, if you’re cooking for kids or those who prefer milder flavors, you can stick with the basic taco seasoning and fresh vegetables.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of protein. While this recipe features chicken, you can easily swap in turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian option. This flexibility ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy a meal tailored to their liking.
Ingredients
For the Taco Filling
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!
Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chopped onion and bell pepper at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add Chicken and Seasoning
Add the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir to combine with the juices and vegetables.
Serve
Serve the chicken filling in taco shells with your choice of toppings such as cheese, lettuce, salsa, and avocado.
Enjoy your delicious tacos!
Tips for the Best Results
To achieve the best results with this slow cooker chicken taco filling, make sure to use high-quality chicken breasts. Fresh, organic chicken will yield the most tender and flavorful results. Additionally, don’t shy away from seasoning the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding the chicken; this enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
If you have time, consider marinating the chicken in the taco seasoning and some of the chicken broth for a few hours before cooking. This added step infuses the meat with even more flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this chicken taco filling, the possibilities are endless. In addition to traditional taco shells, try serving it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or over a bed of rice for a hearty burrito bowl. You can also add it to nachos for a delightful twist on a classic appetizer.
Don’t forget about toppings! Fresh cilantro, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole can elevate your taco night experience. Encourage your guests to customize their tacos to their liking, making it a fun and interactive meal.
Leftover Ideas
If you happen to have any leftover chicken taco filling, you're in for a treat! This flavorful mixture can be used in a variety of ways. Try adding it to scrambled eggs for a spicy breakfast burrito or mixing it into a creamy chicken dip for game day snacking.
You can also toss the filling with pasta for a unique twist on chicken alfredo or add it to a hearty soup for extra protein. The versatility of this dish ensures that leftovers never go to waste and provide exciting new meals throughout the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour.
→ What can I serve with this filling?
This filling is perfect for tacos, burritos, or even as a topping for nachos.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free taco seasoning and taco shells.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a delicious and effortless way to prepare a tasty meal. Perfect for taco night or meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Created by: Brielle Thompson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Taco Filling
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the chopped onion and bell pepper at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir to combine with the juices and vegetables.
Serve the chicken filling in taco shells with your choice of toppings such as cheese, lettuce, salsa, and avocado.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g