Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup salsa (red or green, red preferred)
- Juice of 2 limes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low or no salt, or water)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot insert. Evenly cover the chicken with the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour the salsa over the chicken. If using, sprinkle lime juice on top for a fresh citrus tang.
- Add Liquid: Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot around the chicken to add moisture and help keep the meat tender during cooking.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, which is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow is preferred to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the crockpot and shred it with two forks on a cutting board. For quicker shredding, you can use a stand mixer or hand mixer, but avoid using an electric mixer directly in the crockpot to prevent damage to the enamel coating.
- Combine and Soak: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to soak up all the flavorful juices that have accumulated during cooking.
- Serve: Serve the shredded chicken with your favorite taco toppings such as lettuce, cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro in soft or hard taco shells.
Notes
- Using low and slow cooking is key for juicy and tender chicken breasts in this recipe.
- Lime juice is optional but adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the spices.
- You can substitute chicken broth with water if you want to reduce sodium further.
- For a spicier version, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the crockpot.
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Salt