Name: Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 255 min
Total time: 265 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts; 3 cups salsa; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1/2 cup corn kernels; 1/2 cup black beans; 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium); 1 cup romaine lettuce (shredded); 1 tomato (large, diced); 1 cup cheddar cheese (low-fat, shredded); 1/4 cup avocado (diced); 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain)

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There’s something about the aroma of the Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos wafting through the house that just feels like home. I remember the first time I made these tacos; it was a chilly evening, and I needed something warm and satisfying. As I tossed in the ingredients, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the delicious meal that awaited us. The simplicity of this recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want to come home to a warm dinner without the fuss. Just set it and forget it! When dinner rolled around, the family gathered around the table, and the smiles that followed each bite were priceless. It quickly became a favorite for both me and the kids. Best of all, they are healthy, loaded with protein, and everyone gets to customize their tacos with their favorite toppings. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these tacos are always a hit!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
255 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Slow Cooker

Why Try This Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos

Effortless Dinner Solution

The Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos are the ultimate solution for those hectic days when you just can’t manage to put a full meal together. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. This means you can go about your day, and by the time dinner rolls around, a hearty meal is waiting for you!

Flavor-Packed Ingredients

Every ingredient in this dish brings something special to the table. The combination of spices like cumin and chili powder infuses the chicken with incredible flavors that meld beautifully during the slow cooking process. Plus, the addition of black beans and corn adds texture and nutrition.

Customizable for Everyone

One of my favorite aspects of these tacos is the endless possibilities for toppings. Whether you like your tacos simple with just lettuce and tomato or piled high with avocado and Greek yogurt, everyone can make their own perfect creation. It’s a fun way to involve the family during dinner!

Healthier Alternative

These tacos are a great way to enjoy a Mexican favorite while keeping it healthy. The use of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and whole-wheat tortillas means you’re providing your family with a meal that’s high in protein and doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, you can feel good knowing you’re serving them a dish that’s packed with nutritious ingredients.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a dish to meal prep, look no further. The Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos make excellent leftovers. You can easily double the recipe and have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

Great for Entertaining

These tacos aren’t just for family dinners. They’re also fantastic for entertaining! Set up a taco bar with all the toppings, and let your guests build their own. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal together!

Ingredient List for Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating a delicious and balanced meal. The key players include the chicken, which serves as the protein base, and the salsa, which adds moisture and flavor. The spices enhance the overall taste, making every bite delightful. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts – The main protein source that becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
3 cups salsa (no sugar added) – Adds moisture and a zesty flavor to the dish.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons chili powder – Provides a kick of heat and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup corn kernels – Sweet and crunchy, they add texture and nutrients.
1/2 cup black beans – A great source of fiber and protein, adding heartiness to the tacos.
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist while cooking and adds flavor.
8 whole-wheat flour tortillas – The perfect vessel for your taco fillings.
1 cup shredded romaine lettuce – Adds freshness and crunch to each bite.
1 large tomato, diced – Provides juiciness and acidity to balance the dish.
1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese – Adds creaminess and richness.
1/4 cup diced avocado – Adds healthy fats and a creamy texture.
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt – A tangy and creamy topping that replaces sour cream.

Step by Step Guide for Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos

Cooking the Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive right into the cooking!

Start by placing the boneless and skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly so they cook uniformly.
Pour the salsa over the chicken, ensuring it’s all covered. The salsa not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
Sprinkle the ground cumin and chili powder evenly over the top. These spices will infuse the chicken with wonderful flavors.
Add the corn kernels and black beans next. These ingredients bring texture and nutrition, making your meal more substantial.
Finally, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. This will help create a flavorful cooking liquid.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about eight hours or on high for about four hours. The chicken will become tender and easy to shred.
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, which will soak up all the delicious flavors.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes on low or 15 minutes on high. This step allows the flavors to meld together.
Once done, take the whole-wheat flour tortillas and spoon about two tablespoons of the seasoned chicken into each one. Don’t be shy; make them plentiful!
Top your tacos with shredded romaine lettuce, diced tomato, cheddar cheese, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt. Feel free to add more toppings as you desire!
Serve your delicious Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos immediately and watch everyone enjoy the burst of flavors and textures!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cooking is key: This method allows the flavors to deepen and the chicken to become tender.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables for toppings can enhance the taste significantly.
Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish sit before serving to allow all flavors to blend.

Variations to Try

There are so many ways to switch up the Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos to keep things exciting! Let’s explore some fantastic variations that you can easily implement.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the shredded chicken mixture in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans to create a complete meal.
Adjusting for spice: If you like it spicier, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Gluten-free option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free alternative.

Perfect Pairings for Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos

When serving the Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos, it’s fun to think about what pairs well with them. Here are some delicious options to complement your meal:

Mexican Rice: A flavorful side of Mexican rice goes perfectly with the tacos, adding heartiness to the meal.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are an excellent pairing that enhances the overall taco experience.
Guacamole: A refreshing bowl of guacamole adds creaminess and a burst of flavor that complements the tacos.
Chips and Salsa: Serve a side of crispy tortilla chips with fresh salsa for an appetizer that’ll get everyone in the mood for tacos!
Fresh Pico de Gallo: A fresh, zesty pico de gallo adds an extra layer of flavor and freshness to each bite of taco.
Perfect for Gatherings: These tacos are ideal for casual get-togethers or game days. Set up a taco bar for guests to customize their own!
Seasonal Variations: In summer, consider adding grilled corn or fresh mango salsa for a tropical twist.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. However, make sure to add an extra 1 to 2 hours of cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked and tender. Just remember, the slower and longer you cook, the better the flavors will meld together.

If you don’t have salsa on hand, you can use canned diced tomatoes with some added spices like onion powder, garlic powder, and a bit of hot sauce to create a similar flavor. This will help you achieve a delicious filling for your tacos.

To make vegetarian tacos, you can replace the chicken with a mix of beans, such as black beans and pinto beans, along with diced bell peppers, corn, and spices. Slow cook these ingredients together for a hearty and flavorful filling.

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just load everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, you’ll have a delicious meal ready for your family.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Protein Chicken Tacos are a delightful and easy dinner option that everyone will love. With tender chicken and flavorful toppings, they make any meal special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a fantastic way to bring the family together around the dinner table. Enjoy the simplicity and the deliciousness that these tacos bring to your home!