Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling

Name: Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a flavorful and convenient way to enjoy tacos any night of the week. Just set it and forget it!

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:49:12.024Z

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you, making it easy to enjoy homemade tacos with minimal effort!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken that shreds easily for perfect tacos
Versatile filling that can be used in burritos, salads, or nachos
Minimal prep time means you can enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle

      

The Convenience of the Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are a busy cook's best friend. They allow you to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort while you go about your day. Just toss in your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a perfect example of how you can create a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The aromas will fill your home, making it feel warm and inviting by the time dinner rolls around.

Not only does the slow cooker simplify meal prep, but it also enhances the flavors of your ingredients. Cooking low and slow allows the spices and seasonings to meld beautifully, resulting in a taco filling that's bursting with flavor. It's a set-it-and-forget-it solution that fits perfectly into a hectic lifestyle, meaning you can serve up a homemade meal even on the busiest nights.

Meal Versatility

One of the best aspects of this chicken taco filling is its versatility. While it’s perfect for tacos, it can easily be adapted to suit various dishes. Use it as a filling for burritos, layer it in a taco salad, or pile it onto nachos for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a valuable addition to your meal rotation.

You can also customize the filling by adding your favorite ingredients. Want to spice it up? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Prefer a creamier texture? Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese after shredding the chicken. This flexibility allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you love meal prepping, this recipe is a dream come true. You can easily double the batch to have enough filling for multiple meals throughout the week. Store the leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer, and you’ll have a quick and easy meal on hand whenever you need it. Simply reheat and serve, and you’re good to go.

Additionally, the chicken taco filling can be paired with various sides to create balanced meals. Serve it with rice, a side of beans, or a fresh green salad to round out your plate. This not only saves time but also ensures that you and your family are enjoying nutritious meals without the stress of daily cooking.

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
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced

Serve with your favorite taco shells and toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the top.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour the salsa over the chicken, then add the black beans, corn, onion, and garlic.

Cook the Filling

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the other ingredients. Serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your delicious tacos!

Tips for Success

For best results, choose high-quality chicken breasts. Fresh chicken will yield a more flavorful and tender result. If you have time, consider marinating the chicken in some of the salsa and taco seasoning for an hour before adding it to the slow cooker. This extra step can enhance the flavor even more.

Make sure to check the consistency of the filling before serving. If it seems too dry, you can add a bit more salsa or even some chicken broth to achieve your desired texture. Adjusting the moisture content can make a significant difference in how the filling holds up in your tacos or other dishes.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover chicken taco filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you're looking to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This ensures an even temperature throughout, allowing the flavors to shine just as they did on the first day.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your chicken taco filling with fresh toppings to elevate the flavor. Consider using shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cheese for a fresh and vibrant presentation. Adding avocado or guacamole can also provide a creamy contrast that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Don’t forget about the taco shells! Whether you prefer soft tortillas, crunchy taco shells, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, the choice is yours. Each delivers a unique texture and flavor, giving you the opportunity to customize your meal exactly how you like it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the chicken taco filling?

This filling is perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or even as a topping for salads.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free taco seasoning.