Crockpot Salsa Chicken Tacos

Three ingredients are all you’ll need to make these super simple crockpot salsa chicken tacos. This easy slow cooker recipe is versatile, so you can enjoy it in tacos, over a salad, or with nachos for a tasty meal the whole family will enjoy.

Who doesn’t enjoy Taco Tuesday? Or if you’re like me, every night is taco night. My family loves Mexican food and I’m always creating new, simple recipes to feed them.

Lots of Mexican dishes can be time-intensive, so they aren’t a good choice for busy weeknights. But I knew this meal would be easier to throw together than a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. 

For the days when I don’t have the brainpower left to plan a meal, let alone cook it, this tried and true slow cooker salsa chicken recipe ticks all the boxes. Not only is it a hit with my family, it’s one of the easiest recipes to throw together and forget about.

With only three simple ingredients and almost zero prep time, this is one of my go-to busy day dinner recipes. When all a meal requires is dumping in a few ingredients and turning on a crockpot, like these slow cooker Italian beef sandwiches, I am there for it.

And if you make a large batch, you can freeze the leftovers so you can enjoy a quick meal with it later on. Or use leftovers to make this delicious crescent taco ring for an easy weeknight dinner.

For more easy taco recipes check out my air fryer tilapia tacos and air fryer Navajo tacos.

Crockpot Salsa Chicken Taco Ingredients

• Chicken – we used boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. 
• Taco seasoning – you can use a store-bought packet or try my homemade taco seasoning version.
• Jar of salsa – helps to keep the chicken moist and adds more flavor. Use your favorite brand of hot, medium or mild salsa.

Optional Taco Toppings

• ​Shredded lettuce
• Cheese – shredded cheddar or Mexican blend work well
• Sour cream
• ​Avocado – diced or make a batch of homemade guacamole
• Pico de gallo
• Taco sauce or hot sauce

How to Make Salsa Chicken in the Crockpot

This is my favorite part: the prep time is as long as it takes you to toss the three ingredients into your crockpot and turn it on.

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker, cover them with taco seasoning, and then pour the salsa over the top. 

Put the lid on, set it to Low or High, depending on how long you have before dinner. 

Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and return the meat to the salsa mixture until you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Meat swaps – use chicken thighs or even chuck roast in place of the chicken breasts. You may need to adjust the cook time if you use other proteins.
• Seasoning options – try fajita, chipotle or an Asada blend.
• Salsas – change things up by using flavored salsas like a fire-roasted blend or salsa verde.

Pro Tip: How to Quickly Shred Chicken

This tip is one of my favorite time-savers. Once the salsa chicken has finished cooking, place the warm chicken in the bowl of your stand mixer and shred it with the paddle attachment on Low speed. This should take about 30-60 seconds, depending on how finely you want it shredded. Don’t overmix it or the chicken will get mushy.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Tacos

We like to set up a little serve-yourself taco bar station and fill it with bowls of our favorite toppings like smoked queso dip, shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, guacamole. Then everyone can create their own tacos.

Serve this flavorful chicken with warm flour tortillas or hard taco shells for tacos. Or change things up and serve it with tortilla chips for nachos, burritos, quesadillas, bowls or over a salad greens. Pair it with Instant Pot cilantro lime rice or refried beans on the side, and your meal is complete.

How to Store Leftover Chicken with Salsa

Before you store the chicken, make sure it has cooled down first. Then place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the meat seems a little dry, add a splash of water or additional salsa to remoisten it.

Can I freeze crockpot salsa chicken?

Yes, you can, which makes this a great recipe for meal prepping. Place the cooled meat in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag then store in the freezer. Your chicken should be good for up to two months. If you have tons leftover, you might want to portion it out to however much you need for a meal.

Do I need to add water or broth with the salsa?

Nope! The salsa has enough water to create a sauce with the chicken juices.

Can I double this recipe?

Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you can double or even triple the recipe, which is great if you’re feeding a crowd for game day parties or meal prepping. Just multiply the ingredients and stack the chicken pieces if needed.

I think we can agree this easy 3-ingredient recipe is a great choice for family dinners. And with so many ways to serve it, even your picky eaters will be happy.