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Shredded Chicken Tacos (Crock Pot Recipe)

A delicious and easy-to-make crock pot recipe for tender shredded chicken tacos that create memorable family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless (skinless) chicken thighs Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts and hold up better in slow cooking.
  • 4 tbsp oil Avocado oil recommended for its high smoke point.
  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped Yellow onions work best here for their natural sweetness.
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor.
  • 1 medium tomato, diced Use canned tomatoes if fresh is not available.
  • 2 tsp kosher salt Divided use.
  • 1 tsp ground chipotle powder Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
  • 1.5 tbsp chili powder or taco seasoning Use a spice mix you love.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the finely chopped onions and 1 tsp of salt. Cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Scrape this mixture into your 3-quart or larger crock pot.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes, chipotle powder, chili powder, chicken thighs, and remaining teaspoon of salt.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Finishing Touches
  1. Carefully transfer the chicken to a cutting board and leave the sauce in the slow cooker on high to thicken for about 10 minutes.
  2. Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
  3. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring to coat with the flavorful sauce.
  4. If the sauce is too runny, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can prepare everything a day in advance for convenience. Adjust spices to your preference.