These Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos are a game-changer for busy days! Just toss chicken, spices, and some veggies into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
Soft tortillas and tasty toppings mean everyone will love their own taco creation. I make a batch for dinner and keep leftovers for lunch—no complaints here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless chicken thighs work great too as they’ll stay juicy and flavorful.
Salsa: Choose a low-sodium, no sugar added salsa for a healthier option. If you can’t find any, consider using diced tomatoes with added spices for a homemade twist.
Taco Seasoning: While store-bought seasoning is convenient, making your own allows you to control the ingredients. Simply mix together chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper based on your taste preferences.
Tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas add a healthy touch. If you need to avoid gluten, corn tortillas are a fantastic choice—as they are naturally gluten-free!
How Do I Make the Juiciest Shredded Chicken?
The secret to perfectly shredded chicken lies in slow cooking. Cooking it low and slow allows flavors to blend and keeps the chicken moist. Here’s how to get that juicy texture:
- Start with chicken that is thawed; frozen chicken might not cook evenly.
- Layer the chicken in the crockpot and season generously; don’t skimp on those spices!
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps keep the juices inside.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken back into the juices for more flavor and moisture.
These simple steps ensure that your tacos are filled with tender, flavorful chicken—just perfect for your taco night!
Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa (choose a low-sodium, no sugar added variety for healthiness)
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 8 small whole wheat or corn tortillas
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, light shredded cheese, plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco recipe requires just 15 minutes of preparation. Then, you’ll let the crockpot do the work for about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, set it up in the morning, and you’ll have a flavorful dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Set Up Your Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot. Make sure they are evenly spaced out for even cooking!
2. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. This will add a burst of flavor to the meat as it cooks!
3. Pour in the Salsa:
Next, add the salsa and chicken broth (or water) directly on top of the chicken. If you’re adding bell peppers and onions, toss those in too! They’ll add extra flavor and texture.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Your chicken is ready when it’s fully cooked and can be easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Shred it using two forks, pulling the chicken apart into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the juices for maximum flavor!
6. Prepare Your Tortillas:
While the chicken is resting a bit, warm up the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for about 20 seconds.
7. Assemble Your Tacos:
Now, it’s taco time! Spoon a hearty amount of the shredded chicken onto each tortilla. Then, get creative with toppings—add sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Don’t forget the lime wedges! Squeeze some fresh lime juice over each taco for a zesty finish. Enjoy your healthy, flavorful crockpot chicken tacos!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Crockpot Chicken Tacos
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to cook it on HIGH for 5-6 hours instead of the usual times.
How Can I Customize the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a mild salsa and reduce the amount of taco seasoning. For a spicier kick, choose a hot salsa or add fresh jalapeños to the crockpot!
What Are the Best Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken taco mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry. The tortillas can be wrapped in foil and reheated in the oven until warm.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before cooking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the crockpot for even cooking.
