Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy tacos any night of the week.
Transform your taco nights with this simple yet delicious slow cooker chicken taco filling. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken that shreds easily for perfect tacos
- Versatile filling that can be used in various dishes
- Minimal prep time makes it a busy weeknight staple
The Convenience of Slow Cooking
Slow cookers have revolutionized meal preparation, allowing busy individuals and families to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals with minimal effort. With this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling, you can set it and forget it. Simply add your ingredients in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have a flavorful taco filling ready to serve. This method not only saves you time but also enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together throughout the cooking process.
The beauty of using a slow cooker lies in its ability to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with the spices and flavors of the added ingredients. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the rich tastes of the taco seasoning and the zesty diced tomatoes, creating a mouthwatering filling that’s perfect for tacos or any of your favorite Mexican dishes.
Endless Versatility
One of the standout features of this chicken taco filling is its versatility. While it’s perfect for traditional tacos, you can also use it in a variety of other dishes. Consider serving it over rice for a hearty burrito bowl, or mixing it into nachos for a fun twist on game day snacks. You can even use it as a topping for baked potatoes or salads, making it an ideal option for meal prep or leftovers.
This filling also works well in wraps, quesadillas, and enchiladas, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen. The possibilities are endless, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly meal rotation. Plus, with the ease of preparation, you can quickly whip it up for a last-minute gathering or family meal.
A Family-Friendly Meal
Getting kids involved in the kitchen can be a challenge, but this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling makes it fun and engaging. Let your little ones help by adding ingredients to the slow cooker or setting the table with their favorite toppings. Tacos are inherently customizable, so everyone can build their own meal with toppings like cheese, lettuce, salsa, or avocado.
This recipe is not only a hit with kids but also with adults, making it a great option for family dinners. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it encourages everyone to enjoy a meal together, fostering quality family time around the dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Taco Filling
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
Cook the Filling
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the filling.
Serve
Serve the taco filling in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your delicious homemade tacos!
Tips for Perfect Tacos
To elevate your taco experience, consider toasting your tortillas before serving. This simple step adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor. You can do this in a dry skillet or even wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven. Additionally, don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings. Fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime can add vibrant flavors that complement the chicken filling beautifully.
If you’re looking to add a kick to your tacos, try incorporating jalapeños or a spicy salsa. For a creamy element, avocado or sour cream is an excellent choice. The key is to balance the flavors and textures to create a taco that suits your personal taste.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chicken taco filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for meal prep. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it easy to pack for lunches or to enjoy as a quick dinner later in the week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken filling. Divide it into portions and store in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This ensures you always have a delicious meal option on hand, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Health Benefits of Chicken Tacos
Chicken is a lean protein that is low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to other meats. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is not only satisfying but also provides essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. By adding beans and corn, you’re also increasing the fiber content of the meal, which is beneficial for digestion and overall health.
Moreover, making your own taco filling allows you to control the ingredients and the amount of seasoning used, making it easier to create a healthier dish compared to many pre-packaged options. You can adjust the level of salt and choose organic or low-sodium ingredients to suit your dietary needs, ensuring a nutritious meal that your whole family will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and avocado.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning, this recipe is gluten-free.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy tacos any night of the week.
Created by: Josie Lambert
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Taco Filling
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In the slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the filling.
Serve the taco filling in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g