How To Make Chicken Tacos In Crock Pot [COMPLETE GUIDE]

Chicken tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. They are easy to make, and one of the best ways to prepare them is in a crock pot. Crock pots, also known as slow cookers, are convenient kitchen appliances that allow you to cook food slowly over a long period of time, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes. By using a crock pot to make chicken tacos, you can effortlessly create a meal that is packed with flavor and requires minimal hands-on time.

In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make chicken tacos in a crock pot. We will cover everything from selecting the right ingredients to troubleshooting common issues. So let’s get started and learn how to make delicious chicken tacos in a crock pot!

Quick Answer: How Long To Make Chicken Tacos In Crock Pot

The cooking time for chicken tacos in a crock pot can vary depending on the recipe and the size of the chicken pieces. However, a general guideline for cooking chicken tacos in a crock pot is 4 to 6 hours on low heat, or 2 to 3 hours on high heat.

Keep in mind that these times are approximate and you should always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. The internal temperature of cooked chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Selection

1. Chicken: When it comes to making chicken tacos in a crock pot, it’s important to choose the right type of chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay moist. You can use either fresh or frozen chicken, but if using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

2. Taco Seasoning: To add flavor to your chicken tacos, you’ll need taco seasoning. You can either use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own at home with a combination of spices such as chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

3. Tortillas and Toppings: Along with the chicken, you’ll need tortillas to make the tacos. Choose your preferred type of tortillas, whether it’s corn or flour tortillas. Additionally, gather various toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese. These toppings will add freshness and a burst of flavor to your tacos.

Preparation

Before starting the cooking process, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare the ingredients:

1. Trim the Chicken: If using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trim off any excess fat or cartilage. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and results in a tender texture.

2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the taco seasoning generously over the chicken pieces, making sure to coat all sides. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning overnight in the refrigerator.

3. Prepare the Tortillas: If using corn tortillas, you can warm them up by lightly charring them on a stovetop or in a dry skillet. This will enhance their flavor and make them more pliable. If using flour tortillas, you can warm them by wrapping them in aluminum foil and placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

4. Prepare the Toppings: Wash and chop any fresh toppings you plan to use, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro. Place them in separate bowls to make it easier to assemble the tacos later.

Crock Pot Cooking Times For Chicken Tacos

As mentioned earlier, the general cooking times for making chicken tacos in a crock pot are 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. However, the actual cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific model of your crock pot. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

1. Chicken Thighs: If using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, they will cook faster than larger chicken breasts. On low heat, chicken thighs typically take around 4 to 5 hours to cook, while on high heat, they can be ready in 2 to 3 hours.

2. Chicken Breasts: If using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, they will take longer to cook compared to chicken thighs. On low heat, chicken breasts generally require 5 to 6 hours of cooking time, while on high heat, they can be done in 3 to 4 hours.

3. Frozen Chicken: If using frozen chicken, it will take longer to cook than fresh chicken. Plan for an additional 1 to 2 hours of cooking time when using frozen chicken. It is important to fully thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.

It is important to note that these are approximate cooking times and can vary depending on the size and quality of your crock pot as well as the specific recipe you are using. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

How To Make Chicken Tacos In Crock Pot

Now that we have gone through the selection and preparation steps, let’s dive into the process of making chicken tacos in a crock pot:

1. Place the Chicken in the Crock Pot: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the crock pot, ensuring they are evenly spread out. If using multiple layers of chicken, place a layer of parchment paper or aluminum foil between them to prevent sticking.

2. Add Liquid: To prevent the chicken from drying out, add a small amount of liquid to the crock pot. You can use chicken broth, water, or even salsa. The liquid will help add moisture and flavor to the chicken as it cooks.

3. Cook on Low or High Heat: Set your crock pot to the desired temperature. If you have enough time, cooking on low heat will result in more tender and flavorful chicken. However, if you are short on time, cooking on high heat is also effective.

4. Let it Cook: Cover the crock pot with the lid and let the chicken cook for the desired amount of time. Avoid opening the lid frequently as this will cause heat loss and increase the cooking time. You can check the progress by gently poking a fork into the chicken. If it easily pulls apart, the chicken is done.

5. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be tender enough to easily shred.

6. Assemble the Tacos: Warm up the tortillas if needed and place a scoop of the shredded chicken on each tortilla. Add your desired toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla and enjoy your delicious chicken taco!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While making chicken tacos in a crock pot is generally a simple process, you may encounter some issues along the way. Here are some common problems you may face and how to troubleshoot them:

1. Dry Chicken: If your chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking or not adding enough liquid to the crock pot. Make sure to follow the recommended cooking times and add a small amount of liquid to keep the chicken moist.

2. Undercooked Chicken: If your chicken is undercooked, it may be due to using frozen chicken or not cooking it for a long enough time. Ensure that your chicken is fully thawed before cooking and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

3. Lack of Flavor: If your chicken tacos lack flavor, it may be because you didn’t season the chicken adequately. Make sure to generously coat the chicken with taco seasoning or adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can also add additional seasoning or spices to the crock pot while the chicken is cooking.

4. Soggy Tortillas: If your tortillas become soggy, it may be because you added too much liquid to the crock pot or didn’t warm the tortillas properly. Adjust the amount of liquid you add to the crock pot, and if using corn tortillas, lightly char them to enhance their texture.

Chicken tacos made in a crock pot are a delicious and hassle-free meal option for both weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends and family. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create tender and flavorful chicken that is perfect for filling your favorite tortillas. Remember to select the right ingredients, season the chicken properly, and cook it for the appropriate amount of time to ensure the best results. With a little bit of preparation and patience, you can enjoy mouthwatering chicken tacos that will leave everyone wanting more.

Achieving Perfect Texture

When it comes to delicious and convenient meals, chicken tacos are a favorite for many. The succulent and tender chicken, combined with flavorful seasonings and topped with your favorite garnishes, creates a mouthwatering dish that is loved by adults and kids alike. Making chicken tacos in a crock pot takes this dish to a whole new level of simplicity and flavor. By slow-cooking the chicken, you can achieve a perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture while infusing it with incredible flavors.

One of the biggest advantages of using a crock pot to cook chicken for tacos is the ability to achieve a wonderfully tender and moist texture. The slow, low-temperature cooking process allows the meat to break down slowly, resulting in chicken that practically falls apart with each bite. Here are some tips to ensure the perfect texture:

1. Choose chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are ideal for slow cooking as they have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, which helps prevent them from drying out. The fat also adds a depth of flavor to the meat. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, you can still achieve a moist texture by adding some liquid (such as chicken broth or salsa) to the crock pot to keep the meat from drying out.

2. Trim excess fat: While the fat content is desirable for flavor and moisture, it’s important to trim any excessive fat from the chicken thighs to avoid greasiness in the final dish.

3. Season the chicken: Before placing the chicken in the crock pot, season it generously with your favorite spices. This will not only enhance the flavor but also penetrate the meat during the cooking process, creating a well-seasoned and delicious chicken.

4. Use a slow cooking setting: Most crock pots have different temperature settings. Opt for the low temperature setting when making chicken tacos to ensure the meat cooks slowly and remains tender. High heat can cause the chicken to overcook and become tough.

Flavor Infusion

One of the beauties of cooking chicken tacos in a crock pot is the ability to infuse the meat with incredible flavors. The slow cooking process allows the seasonings to penetrate deep into the chicken, resulting in a flavorful and tantalizing dish. Here’s how you can enhance the taste of your chicken tacos:

1. Seasonings: Choose a combination of spices that complement the flavors of Mexican cuisine. Common seasonings for chicken tacos include cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano. Feel free to experiment with different spices to find your preferred flavor profile.

2. Fresh herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley to the crock pot will infuse the chicken with a burst of freshness. Simply chop the herbs and sprinkle them over the seasoned chicken before cooking.

3. Citrus marinade: Before cooking the chicken, consider marinating it in a citrus-based marinade for a few hours or overnight. Citrus juices, such as lime or orange juice, add a tangy and bright flavor to the chicken. The acid in the citrus fruits also helps tenderize the meat.

4. Salsa or diced tomatoes: For an extra burst of flavor, pour your favorite salsa or diced tomatoes with their juices over the chicken in the crock pot. The tomatoes will release their natural sweetness and acidity, resulting in a delicious sauce that can be used as a topping for the tacos.

Aroma

The aroma that fills your kitchen while the chicken tacos cook in the crock pot is simply mouthwatering. It’s impossible to resist the enticing smells that waft through your home as the chicken slow-cooks to perfection. Here’s how you can maximize the aromatic experience:

1. Onions and garlic: Sautéing onions and garlic in a little bit of oil or butter before adding them to the crock pot can greatly enhance the aroma of your chicken tacos. The savory scent of sautéed onions and garlic will permeate the dish and create a rich base of flavor.

2. Toasting spices: To intensify the aroma of the spices, consider toasting them in a dry skillet before adding them to the chicken. Toasting releases the essential oils in the spices, resulting in a more fragrant and flavorful seasoning.

3. Fresh aromatics: If you enjoy an extra kick of fragrance, add some fresh aromatics to the crock pot. This can include whole spices like cinnamon sticks or bay leaves, as well as fresh ingredients like sliced jalapeños or bell peppers.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure your chicken tacos turn out perfect every time, it’s important to employ some cooking techniques specific to the crock pot. Here are some techniques to keep in mind:

1. Layering: Place the chicken at the bottom of the crock pot and layer any additional ingredients, such as onions or salsa, on top. This allows the flavors to blend and ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

2. Don’t overcook: While slow cooking is key to achieving tender chicken, it’s important not to overcook it. Chicken is safe to eat when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid cooking beyond this point to prevent dryness.

3. Shredding the chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it into small, bite-sized pieces. The slow cooking process will make the meat so tender that it practically falls apart. Shredding the chicken allows for easy filling of tortillas and ensures each bite is evenly flavored.

4. Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce for your chicken tacos, remove the shredded chicken from the crock pot and transfer the liquid to a saucepan. Simmer the liquid over medium heat until it thickens to your desired consistency. Pour the thickened sauce over the shredded chicken and mix well.

Crock Pot Tips For Chicken Tacos

To make your chicken taco cooking experience even easier and more enjoyable, here are some additional tips specifically for using a crock pot:

1. Use a liner: Consider using a crock pot liner for easy cleanup. These disposable liners make it simple to remove all the cooked ingredients and sauce from the crock pot without any scrubbing or soaking.

2. Preheat the crock pot: If you want to shorten the overall cooking time, preheat the crock pot by turning it on to the highest heat setting for about 10 minutes before adding the chicken and other ingredients. This will help jumpstart the cooking process.

3. Avoid lifting the lid: It is tempting to check on the progress of your chicken tacos, but resist the urge to lift the lid frequently. Each time the lid is lifted, precious heat and moisture escape, prolonging the cooking time.

4. Slow and steady wins the race: Avoid rushing the cooking process by turning up the heat. Slow cooking is essential to achieve tender and flavorful chicken tacos. Patience is key!

Creative Crock Pot Chicken Tacos Recipes

Now that you have the foundation of making delicious chicken tacos in a crock pot, let’s explore some creative recipe ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:

1. Chipotle Lime Chicken Tacos: In addition to the traditional seasonings, add a few chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and the juice of a fresh lime to the crock pot. The smoky and tangy flavors will elevate your chicken tacos to new heights.

2. Pineapple Salsa Chicken Tacos: Add diced pineapple, along with its juice, to the crock pot for a tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

3. BBQ Pulled Chicken Tacos: Instead of using traditional Mexican seasonings, coat the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce and let it slow-cook until it falls apart. The tender and tangy BBQ pulled chicken will make for a unique and delicious taco experience.

4. Verde Chicken Tacos: Replace the traditional red salsa with a homemade or store-bought green salsa. The bright and zesty flavors of the salsa verde will add a refreshing twist to your chicken tacos.

Conclusion

Making chicken tacos in a crock pot is a fantastic way to achieve tender, flavorful, and convenient meals. With the slow cooking process, you can effortlessly create succulent chicken with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. By infusing the meat with an array of seasonings, herbs, and aromatics, you can elevate your chicken tacos to the next level in terms of taste and aroma. Remember to apply specific cooking techniques and crock pot tips to ensure the best results. Experiment with different flavors and get creative with your ingredients to personalize your chicken tacos. Whether you choose a classic recipe or a unique variation, your crock pot chicken tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleasing and fuss-free meal option for any day of the week.

FAQS

What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Chicken Tacos In A Crock Pot?

You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and taco shells or tortillas for serving. You can also add additional ingredients such as diced onions, peppers, or jalapenos.

How Do I Prepare The Chicken For The Crock Pot?

Before placing the chicken in the crock pot, it’s important to trim any excess fat and season the chicken with the taco seasoning. This will ensure that the chicken is flavorful and tender once cooked.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken For This Recipe?

While it is recommended to use thawed chicken for best results, you can use frozen chicken in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly – frozen chicken may take longer to cook than thawed chicken.

How Long Do I Cook The Chicken In The Crock Pot For?

Cook the chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

How Do I Serve The Chicken Tacos?

Once the chicken is cooked, use a fork to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Serve the chicken in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, and salsa. Enjoy!