Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering twist on Taco Night! Our Slow Cooker Chicken Tomatillo Tacos are a game-changer, combining tender, flavorful chicken with zesty tomatillo salsa for a dish that's not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked goodness wafting through your kitchen, ready to be wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Whether you're hosting a fiesta or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe promises to deliver a burst of Mexican flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 jar (16 oz) tomatillo salsa
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 12 corn tortillas
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and spread them across the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the chopped onions in a single layer.
- Pour the entire jar of tomatillo salsa over the chicken, making sure to cover the meat completely.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 6 hours. The chicken should become tender and easily shredded.
- After 6 hours, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the tomatillo sauce and onions.
- Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave just before serving.
- Serve the shredded chicken in warm tortillas, garnishing with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Optional: Serve with additional toppings like diced onions, lime wedges, or sour cream if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result compared to chicken breasts. The slow cooking process will make them incredibly tender!
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can season the chicken and chop the onions the night before. Store them in the refrigerator, so they're ready to go in the morning.
- Layering is Key: Make sure to spread the chopped onions at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the chicken. This helps to infuse the chicken with the onion's flavor as it cooks.
- Salsa Selection: Use a high-quality tomatillo salsa for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different brands or heat levels to find your perfect match.
- Shred with Ease: After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This allows the meat to soak up the delicious tomatillo sauce, enhancing the flavor.
- Warm Tortillas: For the best texture, warm your corn tortillas on a skillet or in the microwave just before serving. This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
- Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings! Diced onions, lime wedges, avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream can elevate your tacos to the next level.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they make for a great filling in burritos, quesadillas, or even on top of a salad for a refreshing meal the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 140mg
