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–+ servings

Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken

This Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken is an easy dump-and-go dinner with tender, saucy chicken perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, nachos, salads, quesadillas, and more.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6 servings
Calories 190 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts chicken thighs may be substituted
  • 1 jar tomato-based salsa mild, medium, or spicy
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies such as Rotel; regular diced tomatoes may be used in a pinch
  • 1 packet taco seasoning store-bought, homemade, or low-salt
  • fresh garlic crushed or minced; substitute 1 teaspoon garlic powder if needed
  • a sprinkle smoked paprika optional, for smoky flavor
  • a pinch chipotle chili powder optional, for smoky heat
  • lime juice fresh-squeezed preferred; bottled works too
  • a few tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped, optional
  • salt, hot sauce, or extra lime juice to taste, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker.
  • Pour the salsa and diced tomatoes with green chilies over the chicken.
  • Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the fresh garlic, plus smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder if using.
  • Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours, or on high for about 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken shreds easily.
  • Remove the cooked chicken breasts and shred them with two forks.
  • Add the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and stir well so it soaks up the saucy cooking juices.
  • If the mixture seems watery, let it sit on warm with the lid off for 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens.
  • Stir in lime juice and cilantro if desired, then taste and add salt, hot sauce, or extra lime juice as needed before serving.

Notes

Cool completely before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze with the juices in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water, chicken broth, or salsa if needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 190kcal
Keyword crockpot chicken, meal prep chicken, shredded chicken, slow cooker chicken, Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Chicken, taco filling
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