There’s something magical about a tender, juicy chicken dish that cooks itself while you take care of life. This slow cooker shredded chicken bursts with taco-inspired flavor and is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even a fun gathering with friends. Get ready for a fuss-free meal that’s big on taste.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco spice mix)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Begin by preparing your chicken. Season the chicken breasts (or thighs) lightly with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you gather and measure out your remaining ingredients.
Warm the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. This extra step builds deeper flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, you can simply add the onion and garlic directly to the slow cooker.
Place the chicken, sautéed onions and garlic, taco seasoning, and tomato paste in your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the liquid covers or mostly covers the chicken. Close the lid and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and fork-tender.
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Gently stir the shredded meat to coat it with the flavorful juices, then taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or taco spice if needed.
This zesty, taco-style shredded chicken is a lifesaver for busy folks craving a hearty meal. It’s great in tacos, burritos, salads, or simply piled high on a toasted bun. The protein-packed recipe works well for gluten-free or low-carb lifestyles, and you can easily switch up the seasoning—think barbecue sauce instead of tomato paste or add cumin and chili flakes for extra heat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with endless versatility. Happy cooking!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
