Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos (With Instant Pot Option)

Life can be busy, and sometimes, we all crave a quick and easy meal. However, I still want what my family eats to be fresh and nourishing. That’s where these delicious, slow-cooker chicken tacos come in to save the day! With just 5 minutes of prep time, this saucy, spiced chicken is always a hit with my family in tons of different presentations. I’ve served it in taco shells, tortillas, refreshing lettuce wraps, over-baked potatoes, or even on top of a crisp, green salad.

And with three kids under the age of 4, there’s almost nothing I value more than convenience these days. That’s why I tested and perfected this recipe in the Instant Pot (you’ll be able to see those instructions below, too).

Speaking of convenience, I also love making this meal frequently because I can use the leftovers in so many ways. Some of my favorites have been to make a burrito bowl, over nachos, in a quick quesadilla, or over a bed of lettuce for a fast salad. This recipe has been an absolute game-changer for us when it comes to dinner and versatile meal prep for the week. Hopefully, it can do the same for you!

Healthy + Delicious = The Perfect Duo

These slow-cooker chicken tacos pack a punch of health benefits thanks to their wholesome ingredients. (Seriously, my husband doesn’t even realize what a healthy meal he’s eating!)

The chicken provides lean protein for strong muscles and essential B vitamins to keep you energized throughout the day. Meanwhile, the salsa adds a burst of flavor without extra calories, offering vitamins A and C to support your immune system.

But it’s the spices that really steal the show here! Cumin and chili powder not only add spice, but they also boost metabolism and bring antioxidants to the table. Cayenne pepper kicks up the heat and may even give your metabolism a boost, while black pepper enhances nutrient absorption. And let’s not forget garlic powder, which not only supports heart health but also boasts antibacterial properties.

Plus, if you add the optional ground coriander, you’ll get some possible aid in digestion and inflammation.

This recipe just goes to show that eating for your health doesn’t have to be complicated if you choose to pair the right ingredients together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Boneless skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs: For optimal flavor and texture, we recommend using one-pound portions of both chicken thighs and breasts. I get my high-quality, free-range chicken from ButcherBox delivered right to our door.
• Salsa: Use your favorite salsa, whether homemade or store-bought.
• Water: You can substitute chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
• Spices*: For an authentic taco flavor, you’ll need ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and optional ground coriander. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred heat level or omit it for less spice. Season with salt and black pepper.
• Salad greens or butter leaf lettuce: These are perfect for serving the crockpot shredded chicken in lettuce wraps or salads. Alternatively, use corn or flour tortillas or taco shells — we prefer organic corn tortillas or grain-free tortillas.
• Toppings of choice: Gather freshly chopped vegetables, cilantro, olives, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, hot sauce, fresh salsa, lime wedges, lime juice, shredded cheese, and sour cream. 

*Note: Instead of making your own seasoning, as directed in the recipe, you may substitute our Homemade Taco Seasoning or use a pre-made taco seasoning of your choice.

Find the ingredient list with exact measurements in the recipe card below.

Following A Specific Dietary Plan?

If you’re hosting friends or family with dietary restrictions or specific diets, these chicken tacos are a fantastic choice. By letting everyone build their own meal, this recipe works for almost anyone.

• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. For those with celiac disease, offer gluten-free corn tortillas, serve it over rice or cauliflower rice, or in lettuce wraps. 
• Grain-free: Serve the chicken in lettuce wraps or in your favorite grain-free taco shells.
• Dairy-free: To make these tacos completely dairy-free, simply skip any dairy toppings like cheese and sour cream. Instead, try our vegan queso or vegan nacho cheese for a delicious dairy-free drizzle.
• Paleo: This recipe doesn’t contain any added dairy, grains, sugars, or refined oils, making it perfect for Paleo eaters.
• Whole30: To make this recipe a great Whole30 meal, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps or “bowl style” over cauliflower rice or lettuce greens. Skip the cheese and sour cream and top your tacos with guacamole, fresh salsa, and cilantro.

How To Store

Once the chicken is shredded, allow it to cool completely before you store it. Transfer it to a glass airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. You can then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for longer-term meal prep.

For even more convenience, freeze individual portions of the shredded chicken in smaller freezer-safe bags or containers. This way, you can easily grab exactly what you need for a quick and portable lunch or a simple dinner for one or two.

How To Serve

This recipe is perfect when you’re setting up a taco bar for a weeknight dinner, entertaining friends, or a game day. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you’ll have more time to get creative with your favorite toppings! As it only takes 5 minutes of prep time for this recipe, here are 5 of my favorite ways to creatively serve this chicken other than on tortillas:

• Over rice for a “bowl style”
• In lettuce wraps
• Nacho style
• Over baked sweet potatoes (like we do with our Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken)
• In enchiladas as a filling

And here are some of the toppings that have been the biggest hit with my family and friends (it’s a special favorite for game days!):

• Chopped red or white onions 
• Diced jalapeno peppers
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced or mashed avocado
• Our homemade guacamole
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Our quick pickled onions
• Hot sauce
• Lime wedges
• Cotija or shredded colby jack cheese
• Our vegan nacho cheese or our vegan queso
• Sour cream
• Black beans
• Sautéed bell peppers for an extra boost of vitamins A and C

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Photo Credit: The photos in this blog post were taken by Jess of Plays Well with Butter. 

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