Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

This easy Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken recipe is my secret weapon for creating countless tender, juicy and flavorful dishes everyone loves. Incredibly versatile and ridiculously delicious, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into everything from tacos, burrito bowls, salads, and much more.

Easy Crockpot Shredded Chicken

I absolutely love making this Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken to keep in the fridge for busy days. It’s one of those recipes that always turns out perfect, it’s loaded with flavor and couldn’t be easier to make. Whether I’m tossing it into tacos, salads, or a quick rice bowl, it’s a staple in my kitchen.

What makes this recipe even better is how the slow cooker handles most of the work for you. Just place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot, add the rest of the ingredients, set it, and forget it. When ready, you’ll have perfectly tender and juicy shredded chicken loaded with savory flavors from the spices and zesty salsa.

If you love the bold and zesty flavors in this recipe, you should also try my recipe for Crockpot Shredded Beef. It’s another dish that’s always a big hit with my family.

Ingredients

Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card for the specific amounts.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner.
• Taco seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade blend.
• Onion: As they slow cook, they become tender, adding extra flavor.
• Fresh garlic, minced: Mince it yourself for the best taste.
• Salsa: Fire-roasted salsa brings a smoky touch, but any salsa works.
• Lime juice: Brightens up the flavors of the dish.
• Fresh cilantro (optional): Perfect for garnish if you love the herby kick.

How to Make Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Step 1. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2. Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.

Step 3. Next, layer the onions and garlic on top.

Step 4. Pour the salsa over everything.

Step 5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 6. Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and transfer to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken, then return it back to the slow cooker and stir into the sauce.

Step 7. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Storage Instructions

Store your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

You can also freeze for later. Just place cooled chicken in a freezer safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Delicious Ways To Use Shredded Chicken

• Tacos: Scoop this tender chicken into tortillas and add your favorite toppings.
• Burrito bowls: To a serving bowl, layer the chicken with rice, beans, salsa, and guacamole.
• Taco salad: Toss this juicy chicken over a bed of lettuce with your favorite taco fixings.
• Pulled chicken sandwiches: Pile the chicken onto buns with a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
• Chicken salad: Combine the chicken with mayo, celery, boiled eggs and other seasonings.
• Tangy chicken alfredo: Stir the chicken into a creamy Alfredo sauce and serve over pasta.
• Chicken enchiladas: Roll the chicken in tortillas, top with enchilada sauce, cheese, & bake.
• Soup: Add the shredded chicken to your favorite soup recipes for extra protein.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza: Use the chicken as a topping for pizza with barbecue sauce.
• Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with chicken and cheese, then cook until golden and melty.
• Casseroles: Add the chicken to your favorite casseroles for a tasty way to add protein.

Variations and Add-ins

You can use this recipe to create many amazing dishes. Here are just a few of the ways I put it to good use:

• Seasoning: You can swap the taco seasoning with fajita seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
• Protein: You can swap the chicken for chuck roast or even a pork shoulder. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier result.
• Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, black beans, corn, mushrooms or jalapeños for extra nutrients.
• Salsa: Use your favorite salsa at your preferred spice level! You can also use rojo, verde, or even pico de gallo.
• Creamy broth: To make the shredded chicken creamy, you can stir in 8 ounces of sour cream after the chicken has been shredded and returned to the pot.
• Sauce: Turn it into BBQ shredded chicken by swapping the salsa for barbecue sauce.

FAQs

Other Tasty Chicken Recipes

• Individual Chicken Pot Pies
• Crispy Panko Chicken
• Lemon Rosemary Chicken
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
• Easy Chicken Alfredo Bake
• Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Chicken and Dumplings
• Coronation Chicken Salad