Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy delicious tacos without the hassle.
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work for you. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that's ready to be served in warm tortillas or over a bed of rice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Tender and juicy chicken infused with spices
- Versatile filling for tacos, burritos, or salads
The Convenience of Slow Cooking
Slow cookers have revolutionized the way we prepare meals, offering a hands-off approach that allows for flavor development without the need for constant attention. With this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling, you can toss in your ingredients in the morning, set your slow cooker, and return home to a delicious, home-cooked meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying dish without the fuss.
Not only does slow cooking save you time, but it also promotes even cooking. The low and slow method helps to break down the chicken, resulting in a tender texture that absorbs the spices and flavors beautifully. This means every bite of your tacos will be bursting with taste, making it a family favorite in no time.
Customization Options
One of the best parts about this chicken taco filling is its versatility. While the recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra spices for a kick, such as jalapeños or chili powder, or incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
Additionally, the filling works wonderfully beyond just tacos. You can use it in burritos, enchiladas, or even on top of a salad for a fresh and healthy meal. This adaptability makes it an ideal recipe for meal prep, ensuring you have tasty options ready for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Perfect Pairings
When serving your chicken taco filling, consider offering a variety of toppings to elevate the meal. Classic options like shredded cheese, sour cream, and guacamole are always crowd-pleasers. Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños can add an extra layer of freshness and heat, while lime wedges provide a zesty finish.
For sides, think about pairing your tacos with classic Mexican rice or a fresh corn salad. A side of refried beans can also complement the meal beautifully, making for a well-rounded dinner experience that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Taco Filling
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serve with your choice of tortillas, lettuce, cheese, and additional toppings.
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the bell pepper and chopping the onion. Drain and rinse the black beans.
Combine in Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, then add the salsa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, and onion. Stir to combine.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the other ingredients.
Serve
Serve the chicken taco filling in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your delicious tacos!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, don't worry! This chicken taco filling stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the filling. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Health Benefits
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Coupled with black beans and corn, you're also getting a boost of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Moreover, the inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish with vitamins and minerals. This makes the filling a great option for a balanced meal that supports overall health without sacrificing taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Some great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fresh cilantro.
→ Can I use a different protein?
Yes, you can substitute with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based options.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy delicious tacos without the hassle.
Created by: Imogen Price
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Taco Filling
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by dicing the bell pepper and chopping the onion. Drain and rinse the black beans.
Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, then add the salsa, black beans, corn, bell pepper, and onion. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the other ingredients.
Serve the chicken taco filling in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 24g