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Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken

Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken
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Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken is a flavorful, tender, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any night of the week. Combining wholesome ingredients with vibrant Mexican spices, this recipe delivers juicy, melt-in-your-mouth chicken ideal for tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 cup black beans (optional), drained and rinsed
  • Juice of 1 fresh lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by finely chopping onions and garlic to maximize their flavor release. Rinse your chicken breasts or thighs and pat them dry to ensure the seasonings stick well.
  2. Layer Flavors in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken in the slow cooker first, then add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and tomato sauce. Give a gentle stir to combine the spices evenly with the sauce, making sure the chicken is fully coated.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This allows the chicken to absorb maximum flavor and become wonderfully tender for shredding.
  4. Shred and Mix: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Mix thoroughly so the juices and spices coat every piece.
  5. Finish with Freshness: Add fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro right before serving to introduce a pop of brightness that balances the richness.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for moister results during long cooking times.
  • Don’t overfill the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and flavor melding.
  • If adding vegetables, layer them at the bottom since they take longer to soften.
  • Taste and adjust salt, spice, or acidity before serving.
  • Add black beans during the last hour to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, Mexican chicken, shredded chicken, tacos, easy dinner, crockpot recipe, gluten free, meal prep

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/slow-cooker-mexican-chicken/