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Homemade Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos recipe photo

Crockpot Shredded Chicken Tacos

Juicy shredded chicken slow-cooked in ranch and spices for easy taco filling.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker (Crock-Pot)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs
  • Whisk or fork
  • two forks or shredding tool

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1-oz packet ranch seasoning mix (Hidden Valley) see note 1
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs see note 2
  • serving suggestions charred corn or flour tortillas; guacamole or avocado, lettuce, shredded cheddar, lime, cilantro, sour cream, and cilantro-lime sauce (see note 3)

Instructions
 

  • Spray the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
  • In the slow cooker, whisk together the ranch seasoning packet, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chicken broth until combined.
  • Use tongs to add the chicken thighs to the seasoning mixture and turn them to coat evenly in the liquid, then arrange the thighs in a single layer smooth side down.
  • Cover and cook on high for 3 hours (up to 5) or on low for 4–6 hours, until the chicken shreds easily with a fork.
  • Turn off the slow cooker, remove the chicken, discard any excess fat, and shred the meat with two forks or dice it with a knife.
  • Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir to combine with the juices, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve warm in charred corn or flour tortillas with your choice of toppings such as guacamole or avocado, lettuce, shredded cheddar, lime, cilantro, sour cream, or cilantro-lime sauce.

Notes

  • Use a standard 1‑ounce Hidden Valley ranch packet for best flavor.
  • Boneless skinless thighs stay juicier than breasts.
  • Shred the chicken while warm for easiest results.
  • Adjust salt and pepper after shredding to taste.
  • Freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers for meal prep.