Save Tender, flavorful shredded chicken slow-cooked with spices, served in warm tortillas for a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal.
I first made these shredded chicken tacos for a family gathering, and everyone loved how flavorful and effortless the meal was. The slow cooker really does all the work, and the result is always a hit at our table.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900 g) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks, 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 small onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Spices: 1 ½ tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Sauce: 1 (14 oz/400 g) can diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp lime juice
- To Serve: 12 small corn or flour tortillas, Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomato, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime wedges
Instructions
- Layer Ingredients:
- Place chicken thighs or drumsticks in the bottom of the crock-pot. Scatter chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken.
- Add Spices:
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Add Sauce:
- Pour diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, and chicken broth over everything.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours (or on high for 3 hours), until chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred Chicken:
- Remove chicken from the crock-pot. Discard any bones, then shred the meat using two forks.
- Combine & Finish:
- Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce. Stir in lime juice.
- Warm Tortillas:
- Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
- Assemble & Serve:
- Fill tortillas with shredded chicken and top with your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.
Save 
Save My kids always jump in to help shred the chicken, and we enjoy building our tacos together at the table. It's become a favorite weeknight dinner with plenty of smiles and second helpings.
Required Tools
Crock-pot (slow cooker), cutting board, knife, forks (for shredding), serving spoons
Allergen Information
Contains gluten if using flour tortillas, so use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version. Cheese and sour cream add dairy. Always check packaged ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 260, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 19 g, Protein: 29 g (per serving, without optional toppings)
Save 
Save Serve these tacos with a squeeze of lime and your choice of vibrant toppings. They're sure to please a crowd and make dinner a breeze.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What cuts of chicken work best?
Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks yield tender, flavorful meat when slow-cooked, but boneless breasts can be used for a lighter option, reducing cook time by an hour.
- → Can I prepare this without a crock-pot?
Yes, use a slow cooker or braise the chicken in an oven-safe dish at low heat until tender and easily shredded.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce during cooking or increase chili powder for more heat.
- → Are corn and flour tortillas interchangeable?
Yes, both work well. Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option, while flour tortillas have a softer texture.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, sliced jalapeños, cheese, sour cream, and lime wedges enhance flavor and texture.