Are you ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering Mexican feast without spending hours in the kitchen? Our Slow Cooker Chicken Fiesta Tacos are about to become your new weeknight superhero! Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with tantalizing aromas of perfectly seasoned chicken, ready to be transformed into the most delicious tacos you've ever tasted. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe will revolutionize your meal prep and have your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- Taco shells or tortillas
- Shredded cheese (optional)
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Place the boneless chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the chicken thighs, coating them thoroughly on all sides.
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans and corn on top of the seasoned chicken.
- Pour the salsa evenly over the chicken, beans, and corn mixture, ensuring all ingredients are well-distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and easily shredded.
- After 6 hours, remove the chicken thighs and use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the beans, corn, and salsa.
- Warm the taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions.
- Fill each taco shell or tortilla with the shredded chicken mixture.
- Optional: Top with shredded cheese and chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Slow Cooker Chicken Fiesta Tacos!
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: Boneless chicken thighs are key for this recipe. They stay more tender and juicy compared to chicken breasts during the long, slow cooking process.
- Seasoning Hack: For extra flavor depth, consider mixing your own taco seasoning blend instead of using a packet. This allows you to control the salt and spice levels.
- Salsa Selection Matters: Use a good quality salsa that you enjoy. The flavor will intensify during cooking, so pick something with a taste you love.
- Shredding Technique: For the most tender shred, let the chicken rest in the slow cooker liquid for a few minutes after cooking before shredding.
- Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station with extras like sour cream, guacamole, diced onions, and lime wedges to let everyone customize their tacos.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe freezes beautifully! Store leftover chicken mixture in portions for quick future meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
