Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for richer flavor)

1 yellow onion, finely chopped (or white or red onion)

4 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic powder as a substitute)

16 oz chunky salsa (choose preferred spice level)

Juice of ½ lime (or lemon, reduced amount)

2 tsp paprika (or cayenne pepper, smoked cayenne, chipotle powder)

2 tsp ground cumin

¼ tsp chili powder

½ tsp ground coriander

½ tsp sea salt

¼ tsp black pepper

12 tortillas (such as Mission Carb Balance or preferred type)

Toppings:

2 avocados, mashed (or guacamole)
4 tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt for extra protein)
1 lime, sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, salsa, lime juice, paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, coriander, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is fully coated with the spices and salsa.

Step 4: Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Stir the shredded chicken well, cover loosely with the lid slightly open, and cook for an additional hour to let some moisture evaporate.

Step 7: Lightly toast the tortillas on a stove or in an air fryer for 20-30 seconds per side. Optionally, spray them lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Assemble the tacos by dividing the shredded chicken among the tortillas and topping with mashed avocado, sour cream, lime slices, and fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more moist and flavorful meat.

Substitute shredded beef or pork if you want a different twist on the tacos.

Adjust the salsa spice level according to your heat preference.

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt to add a protein boost.

Keep the slow cooker lid slightly open in the final cooking stage to avoid soggy filling.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and ingredients in a covered pot on low heat on the stove, simmering gently until the chicken is tender, then shred and reduce the sauce. Cooking time will be shorter, around 1 to 1.5 hours.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh garlic or onion?

You can substitute minced garlic with garlic powder and use onion powder or flakes if fresh onion is not available. Adjust quantities to taste as dried spices are more concentrated.