Are you tired of slaving away in the kitchen, trying to come up with a quick and delicious meal solution for your family? Look no further than crock pot chicken tacos. This mouth-watering dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook chicken for tacos in a crock pot, and provide you with some tasty variations to try.
The Benefits of Using a Crock Pot
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the benefits of using a crock pot. These handy kitchen appliances have been around for decades, but they’re still a popular choice for busy home cooks. Here are just a few reasons why:
- Convenience: Crock pots are designed to be low-maintenance, allowing you to throw all your ingredients into the pot and let it do the work for you.
- Time-saving: With a crock pot, you can cook a meal in just a few hours, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Easy cleanup: Crock pots are a breeze to clean, and many models come with dishwasher-safe parts.
Basic Crock Pot Chicken Tacos Recipe
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of using a crock pot, let’s get started with our basic recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet of taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup of water
- 6 tacos shells
- Shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other taco toppings you like
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
- Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and water to the pot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- When the chicken is cooked through, shred it with two forks and return it to the pot.
- Serve the chicken in tacos shells with your favorite toppings.
Variations on the Basic Recipe
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can also try some variations to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy chicken tacos: Add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the pot for an extra kick of heat.
- Mexican chicken tacos: Add some cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika to the pot for a more authentic Mexican flavor.
- Chicken taco stew: Add some diced onions, bell peppers, and potatoes to the pot for a heartier, stew-like meal.
Adding Some Extra Flavor
One of the best things about crock pot chicken tacos is that you can customize the flavor to suit your tastes. Here are a few ways to add some extra flavor to your dish:
- Use different types of tomatoes: Instead of using diced tomatoes with green chilies, try using crushed tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes for a different flavor.
- Add some acidity: A squeeze of fresh lime juice or a splash of vinegar can add a bright, tangy flavor to your dish.
- Use different types of cheese: Instead of using shredded cheese, try using crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a different flavor.
Tips for Cooking Chicken in a Crock Pot
While cooking chicken in a crock pot is relatively easy, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your chicken turns out tender and juicy. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the easiest type of chicken to cook in a crock pot, and they’re less likely to dry out.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook the chicken until it’s just done, then let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it.
- Use a meat thermometer: If you’re unsure whether the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While cooking chicken in a crock pot is relatively easy, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the pot: Make sure to leave enough room in the pot for the chicken to cook evenly.
- Not stirring the pot: Stir the pot occasionally to ensure that the chicken is cooking evenly.
- Not checking the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
Conclusion
Crock pot chicken tacos are a delicious and easy meal solution that’s perfect for busy families. With just a few ingredients and some basic instructions, you can have a tasty and satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. So why not give it a try tonight and see what you think?
What is the best type of chicken to use for Crock Pot Chicken Tacos?
The best type of chicken to use for Crock Pot Chicken Tacos is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can use either one or a combination of both, depending on your personal preference. Chicken breasts will yield a leaner and slightly drier result, while chicken thighs will be juicier and more tender.
It’s also important to note that you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first before placing them in the Crock Pot. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, but the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Chicken Tacos?
The cooking time for Crock Pot Chicken Tacos is relatively long, but it’s hands-off, so you can just set it and forget it. If you’re using raw chicken, it will take around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, it will take around 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high.
Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on your Crock Pot model and the size of your chicken. It’s always a good idea to check the chicken for tenderness and shred it with two forks to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
What are some common toppings for Crock Pot Chicken Tacos?
Some common toppings for Crock Pot Chicken Tacos include diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, and cilantro. You can also add some diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapenos for extra flavor.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings and use your favorite combinations. You can also serve the tacos with some Mexican rice, beans, or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.
Can I customize the flavor of my Crock Pot Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can customize the flavor of your Crock Pot Chicken Tacos by adding different spices, herbs, or sauces to the chicken. Some ideas include adding cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or using salsa, hot sauce, or diced green chilies for an extra kick.
You can also add some lime juice or zest for a burst of citrus flavor or use some dried oregano or thyme for a more herbal flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find the flavor that you enjoy the most.
How do I store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Tacos?
To store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Tacos, you can place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. You can also store the toppings separately in the refrigerator for up to a week.
When you’re ready to reheat the chicken, simply place it in the microwave or on the stovetop with some added moisture, such as chicken broth or salsa, to prevent drying out.
Can I make Crock Pot Chicken Tacos in advance?
Yes, you can make Crock Pot Chicken Tacos in advance by cooking the chicken and storing it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve. You can also prepare the toppings in advance and store them in the refrigerator until serving time.
To make the tacos even more convenient, you can assemble the tacos just before serving by placing the cooked chicken onto a tortilla and adding your desired toppings.
Are Crock Pot Chicken Tacos a healthy meal option?
Crock Pot Chicken Tacos can be a healthy meal option, depending on the ingredients and toppings you use. Chicken is a lean protein source, and when cooked with vegetables and spices, it can be a nutritious and filling meal.
However, if you add a lot of high-calorie toppings, such as sour cream, cheese, and salsa, the calorie count can add up quickly. To make the dish healthier, opt for low-fat toppings, use whole wheat tortillas, and add plenty of vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.