Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy tacos any night of the week. Simply toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks slowly in a blend of spices and salsa. Serve it with your favorite taco toppings for a fun and easy meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Minimal prep time for busy weeknights
- Versatile filling for tacos, burritos, or salads
- Delicious blend of spices and salsa for maximum flavor
The Convenience of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a game-changer for busy households. With this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling, you can set it and forget it! The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. No need to stand over the stove or worry about timing; just pop everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
This method is particularly advantageous for those hectic weeknights when dinner preparation feels overwhelming. The simplicity of throwing everything into the slow cooker means you can spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen. It’s an effortless way to ensure a nutritious and tasty meal is ready when you are.
Customizing Your Taco Filling
One of the best aspects of this chicken taco filling is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Want to add some heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Prefer a milder flavor? Keep it simple with just the salsa and seasoning.
Additionally, this filling works beautifully in a variety of dishes. Use it not only for tacos but also in burritos, quesadillas, or as a topping for a hearty salad. The possibilities are endless, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
The right toppings can elevate your chicken tacos to the next level. Consider classic options like shredded cheese, crisp lettuce, and ripe avocado. For a burst of freshness, add diced tomatoes, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pickled onions or a drizzle of sour cream for added richness.
Side dishes can also enhance your meal. Serve your tacos alongside Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple corn salad for a complete dining experience. These pairings not only complement the flavors of the chicken filling but also add texture and variety to your meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Taco Filling Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize the toppings according to your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the salsa, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, onion, and bell pepper on top.
Cook the Filling
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything together to combine.
Serve
Serve the chicken taco filling in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, or avocado.
Enjoy your delicious and easy chicken tacos!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover chicken taco filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious tacos multiple nights a week without additional cooking. You can easily reheat the filling in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the filling. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
Nutritional Benefits
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of black beans contributes fiber and essential nutrients, making the meal more filling and satisfying.
Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers and onions increases the dish's vitamin content while adding natural sweetness and flavor. By choosing whole-grain tortillas or taco shells, you can further enhance the nutritional profile, making this meal a well-rounded option for you and your family.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to extend the cooking time.
→ How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add jalapeños or a spicier salsa to the slow cooker for extra heat.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Some great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy tacos any night of the week. Simply toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chicken Taco Filling Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the salsa, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, onion, and bell pepper on top.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir everything together to combine.
Serve the chicken taco filling in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings like cheese, lettuce, or avocado.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g