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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Meat Recipe for Perfect Meal Prep

slow cooker chicken taco meat - featured image

A simple and flavorful slow cooker chicken taco meat recipe perfect for meal prep, featuring tender shredded chicken with homemade taco seasoning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste (about 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper)
  • Optional pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry 2 pounds of chicken breasts or thighs. Chop one medium onion finely and mince 3 garlic cloves. This prep takes about 5 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of cayenne if desired. Stir well.
  3. Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chopped onion and garlic on top.
  4. Pour in one 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes with their juice and 1/2 cup chicken broth.
  5. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over everything. No stirring needed.
  6. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreddable. Stir halfway through if desired.
  7. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks or meat claws. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with juices.
  8. Squeeze 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice over the meat and stir in chopped cilantro if using.
  9. Let the meat cool slightly before dividing into airtight containers for storage.

Notes

If the sauce is too watery after shredding, cook uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken. Use boneless skinless thighs for juicier meat. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth if dry.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, chicken taco meat, meal prep, easy chicken recipe, taco seasoning, crockpot chicken, shredded chicken tacos