The Secret to Stress-Free Entertaining: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
Imagine hosting a gathering where you’re actually enjoying your guests, not slaving over a hot stove. This recipe makes it a reality.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This recipe is full of vibrant, savory flavors. It will have everyone reaching for seconds. Feeding a large group does not have to cost a lot. Chicken tacos are a good and filling choice. Everyone can make their perfect taco, from mild to fiery. Tacos are a favorite for a reason, and these slow cooker chicken tacos are no different.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd:
Making these tacos is simple. You will prepare the chicken, cook it in the slow cooker, and then shred it. Finally, you will serve it with many toppings.
Ingredients of: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd:
For the Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- Chicken broth
- Salsa (mild, medium, or hot – your choice!)
- One onion
- Two cloves garlic
- Lime juice
- Cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Essential Taco Bar Fixings:
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa verde
- Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- Avocado or guacamole
- Hot sauce
- Optional: Black beans, corn, pickled red onions
Directions of: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd:
Prep Work – A Few Minutes for Hours of Flavor:
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
The Slow Cooker Magic Begins:
- Place chicken in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning generously over the chicken.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and salsa to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Shredding and Savoring:
- Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the slow cooker.
- Shred the chicken with two forks. It will be easy to shred because it is cooked in the slow cooker.
- Put the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Stir it well to cover it with the tasty juices.
- Stir in the lime juice and cilantro (if you are using it).
Warm Those Tortillas!
- Warm tortillas in the microwave, oven, or on a griddle before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd:
The Classic Taco Bar:
Set out all your toppings in separate bowls so guests can easily make their own tacos. Keep the chicken warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
Other Delicious Options:
You can also use this chicken for taco salads, nachos, quesadillas, or burrito bowls.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd:
Store leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd:
- Prepare toppings ahead of time to save time on the day you serve.
- Keep the chicken warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting.
- Offer different levels of spice for salsa and hot sauce.
- Do not forget drinks like water, sodas, or juices.
- Double the recipe to make sure you have plenty for a large group.
Variation:
Flavor Variations:
- Spicy: Add chipotle in adobo, cayenne pepper, or a spicier salsa.
- Smoky: Use smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
- Citrusy: Add extra lime, orange, or even grapefruit juice for a brighter flavor.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Adapt this recipe with plant-based chicken substitutes or beans for a meat-free option.
FAQs:
How much chicken do I need for slow cooker chicken tacos for a crowd of X people?
For a crowd, plan on about 4-6 ounces of boneless, skinless chicken per person. So, for ten people, you would need about 2.5 to 3.5 pounds of chicken.
Can I make these slow cooker chicken tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving. You can also prepare and chop all the toppings the day before.
What are the best tortillas to use for slow cooker chicken tacos?
You can use either corn or flour tortillas. Corn tortillas often have a stronger flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. Make sure to warm your tortillas before serving for the best taste and texture.
Classic Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos for a Crowd
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Forks
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Bowls
- Microwave, Oven, or Griddle
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup mild salsa
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish, optional)
Taco Bar Fixings
- 12-16 corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa verde
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 1 avocado, sliced or 1/2 cup guacamole
- Hot sauce to taste
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans rinsed and drained (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Prepare the onion and garlic by chopping and mincing them, then pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker and generously sprinkle the taco seasoning over it.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and salsa to the slow cooker with the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stirring it well to coat it with the tasty juices.
- Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro, if you are using it, for added flavor.
- Warm the tortillas using a microwave, oven, or griddle just before you are ready to serve.
- Set out the warm shredded chicken and all your desired taco bar fixings in separate bowls for guests to assemble their own tacos.