Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel, strained to remove excess juice
- Juice of 1 lime
Optional, For Serving
- Flour tortillas or corn tortillas
- Pico de Gallo
- Guacamole or sliced avocado
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro
- Cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Spray a 6 or 7 quart crockpot with non-stick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Add the Ingredients: Lay the chicken breasts flat in the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken, then top with the strained Rotel tomatoes and fresh lime juice.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 7 to 8 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Drain excess liquid, leaving about half a cup to keep the chicken moist. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot to absorb the flavors.
- Warm the Tortillas and Serve: Warm your choice of flour or corn tortillas on the stovetop or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave. Fill tortillas with shredded chicken and top with your favorite accompaniments like pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Notes
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freeze cooled leftover chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat chicken in the microwave until warm; add a splash of broth or salsa if it seems dry.
- Rotel alternatives include smoky salsa morita or salsa verde. Plain diced tomatoes can work with added jalapeƱos, Serrano peppers, or diced green chiles.
- Add extra veggies like diced onions, bell peppers, corn, or beans for more fiber and flavor.
- Frozen chicken breasts can be used but require the full 8 hours on low to cook thoroughly.
- For a burrito bowl, serve the shredded chicken over cilantro lime rice with your favorite toppings and skip the tortillas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours (high) or 7 to 8 hours (low)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican