Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a hassle-free way to enjoy delicious tacos without the fuss. Let your slow cooker do the work while you prepare your favorite toppings!
This recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker, set it, and let the flavors meld together for a delicious meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A simple, no-fuss cooking method that yields delicious results
- Versatile and can be used in tacos, burritos, or salads
- Packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients
The Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is an excellent method for busy individuals and families looking to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort. With the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling, you can simply set it and forget it! This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. You’ll come home to the enticing aroma of home-cooked tacos, all ready to be enjoyed.
Not only does slow cooking free up your time, but it also enhances the tenderness of the chicken. Cooking at low temperatures for extended periods breaks down the proteins in the meat, making it incredibly juicy and easy to shred. This means every bite of your taco filling will be packed with flavor and texture, making your meal even more enjoyable.
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 needs. For instance, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Alternatively, if you're looking for a milder flavor, simply adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your liking.
Additionally, feel free to swap out ingredients. If black beans aren't your favorite, try substituting them with pinto beans or even lentils for a plant-based option. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition and texture. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a great canvas for your culinary creativity.
Perfect Toppings for Your Tacos
Tacos are all about personal preference, and the toppings you choose can elevate your meal to new heights. Traditional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese are always a hit. However, don't shy away from adding unique options like avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or even a drizzle of lime crema for a refreshing twist.
For those looking to add a crunch, consider topping your tacos with crushed tortilla chips or pickled red onions. These toppings not only add texture but also enhance the overall flavor profile. Remember, the more colorful and diverse your toppings, the more appealing your tacos will look and taste!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Combine in Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the other ingredients.
Serve
Serve the chicken filling in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings!
Enjoy your tacos!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! The Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling stores beautifully. Simply transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This allows the flavors to deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.
When it comes to reheating, you can quickly warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or use the microwave for convenience. Just be sure to add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This way, you'll enjoy a meal that tastes just as good as when it was freshly made!
Serving Suggestions
While this chicken taco filling is perfect for tacos, there are countless ways to enjoy it. Try serving it over a bed of greens for a hearty salad or as a filling for burritos. You can even use it as a topping for nachos, adding layers of cheese and toppings for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
For a more substantial meal, pair your tacos with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a zesty corn salad. These accompaniments not only complement the flavors of the chicken but also add more nutrition to your meal, making it a well-rounded dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
→ What can I serve with this taco filling?
This filling is great in tacos, burritos, salads, or even nachos!
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling
This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Filling is a hassle-free way to enjoy delicious tacos without the fuss. Let your slow cooker do the work while you prepare your favorite toppings!
Created by: Eleanor Briggs
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker. Add the chicken breasts, black beans, corn, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the other ingredients.
Serve the chicken filling in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g