These Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos are perfect for busy evenings. Just toss chicken, spices, and some broth in your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you relax!
What really makes these tacos shine is how tender the chicken gets. I love piling all my favorite toppings on—avocado, salsa, you name it! You can’t go wrong with taco night!
Honestly, I appreciate how easy it is. Once everything is in the pot, I can forget about it! It’s a dinner that makes life simpler and tastier. Time to grab those taco shells!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this recipe. If you’re looking for a different option, thighs are great too—they’re juicy and flavorful. You can even use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a rush!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the flavors balanced. If you’re avoiding animal products, vegetable broth works just as well. Homemade broth can also add a personal touch!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring moisture and a touch of acidity. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop those up. Just make sure to add some extra seasoning for flavor.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for that taco flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. Want some heat? Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Tender?
Cooking the chicken perfectly in a slow cooker is all about timing and moisture. Follow these tips for tender, juicy chicken:
- Cook on low heat for a longer time (6-7 hours) for really tender results. High heat works, but it’s better for a shorter cooking time (3-4 hours).
- Make sure to cover the crockpot to keep all that moisture in. This is what keeps the chicken from drying out.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot itself to let it soak up all those flavorful juices.
So, relax while the crockpot does the work for you and get ready for some delicious tacos!
How to Make Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 8 small whole wheat or corn tortillas
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced tomatoes or salsa
- Shredded lettuce
- Low-fat shredded cheese or queso fresco
- Plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then requires 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. After that, it’s ready to enjoy! Perfect for a hassle-free dinner after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This will be the base for your flavorful taco filling!
2. Mix the Spices:
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to create a tasty sauce.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the spice mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when you’re done.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Give it a good stir to mix the shredded chicken with the delicious juices and spices.
5. Add Lime Juice:
Pour in the fresh lime juice and stir again. Taste and adjust any seasonings, if needed. The lime juice gives a nice brightness to the flavors!
6. Warm the Tortillas:
While everything is coming together, warm your tortillas according to the package instructions. This will make them soft and pliable for filling.
7. Assemble and Serve:
Load your warmed tortillas with the shredded chicken and top with your favorite toppings, like sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, salsa, or any others you enjoy.
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your healthy, flavorful crockpot chicken tacos and savor the ease and deliciousness of your meal! Happy eating!
FAQ for Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to extend the cooking time. Cook on low for about 8-9 hours or on high for around 5-6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Just be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety!
What Can I Use Instead of Tortillas?
If you’re looking for alternatives to traditional tortillas, try using lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or you can serve the chicken over rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Corn tortillas are usually gluten-free; you can also try whole grain options for a healthier choice!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Tacos?
Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist when reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the spice mix. You can also top your tacos with spicy salsa or hot sauce before serving to kick up the flavor!
