Craving a flavorful, easy-to-make meal? Look no further than this crock pot chicken tacos recipe! With tender chicken and a medley of spices, these tacos are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Set it and forget it with your crock pot, and enjoy taco night without the hassle!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup salsa
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 8 small corn or flour tortillas
– Toppings: avocado, cilantro, diced tomatoes, lime wedges
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (based on 1 taco):
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 6g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. Pour salsa over the chicken.
3. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly on top.
4. Add black beans and corn to the pot.
5. Stir gently to combine ingredients.
6. Cover and set the crock pot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
8. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce.
9. Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
10. Serve the chicken mixture in tortillas and top with your favorite toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef for a different flavor profile. You can also use homemade salsa or add bell peppers for extra veggies.
Serving and Pairings
These tacos pair perfectly with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a refreshing salad. Consider serving with tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken taco filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can freeze the filling for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the salsa; it adds essential moisture and flavor.
– Use low-sodium beans to control sodium intake.
– Ensure your crock pot is set to the right temperature.
– Don’t forget to shred the chicken well for better flavor distribution.
Helpful Tips
РFor added spice, include jalape̱os in the mix.
– Let the flavors meld by cooking on low for maximum tenderness.
– Use fresh lime juice over tacos for a zesty kick.
– Experiment with various toppings to customize your tacos.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time. Always ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the salsa for an extra kick.
What toppings do you recommend?
Popular toppings include avocado, cilantro, diced onions, and shredded cheese. Feel free to get creative!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and set the crock pot in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use corn tortillas instead of flour and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This crock pot chicken tacos recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking an easy and delicious meal. Perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner, it offers a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Get ready to savor taco night with minimal effort!
Crock Pot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 8 small tortillas
- Toppings: avocado cilantro, diced tomatoes, lime wedges
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Pour salsa over the chicken.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly on top.
- Add black beans and corn to the pot.
- Stir gently to combine ingredients.
- Cover and set the crock pot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks.
- Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce.
- Warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Serve the chicken mixture in tortillas and top with your favorite toppings.
