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Southwestern Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Southwestern Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Easy, flavorful chicken tacos made entirely in the slow cooker, seasoned with classic Southwestern spices. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 tacos
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Southwestern
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Liquid
  • 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (10 oz) Ro-Tel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 4 oz cream cheese cubed
Spice Blend
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix or equivalent homemade blend
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
For Serving
  • 12 flour or corn tortillas warmed
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 4-quart or larger slow cooker.
  2. Pour the undrained can of Ro-Tel and the chicken broth over the chicken. Sprinkle the taco seasoning packet, cumin, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper evenly over the top.
  3. Cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shredded.
  4. Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them in a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the chicken completely. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  5. Add the cubed cream cheese to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce coating the chicken. Taste and adjust salt or additional spices if necessary.
  6. Stir in half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted. Serve immediately in warmed tortillas, topped with the remaining cheese and desired toppings (salsa, sour cream, avocado, etc.).

Notes

For extra flavor depth, sear the chicken breasts quickly in a hot skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. This recipe freezes and reheats exceptionally well.