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Crockpot Mexican Shredded Chicken

Easy Crockpot Mexican Shredded Chicken for Tasty Weeknight Feasts

This Easy Crockpot Mexican Shredded Chicken is a flavorful dish perfect for weeknight meals, transporting your taste buds to Mexico.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitution: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used.
For the Spice Mix
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust for less heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Substitute with regular paprika if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin A must for authentic flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher salt for texture.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Cooking Spray or Oil Any neutral oil is suitable.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies Replace with fresh if desired.
  • 2 pieces Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Omit for milder flavor.
  • 3 cloves Fresh Garlic Preferably fresh for best taste.

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Nonstick skillet
  • Medium-sized bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Spice Mix: Combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl. Stir until evenly blended.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat a nonstick skillet over high heat and add a splash of cooking oil. Sear each side of the chicken breasts for about 2 minutes.
  3. Transfer to Crockpot: Move the seared chicken to the crockpot. Add diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, and the spice mix, stirring to combine.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on High for 2 to 2.5 hours, or Low for 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is tender.
  5. Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crockpot to absorb the flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 12mg

Notes

This chicken holds well for meal prep and can be customized in heat based on spice preferences. Perfect for a variety of dishes including tacos and salads.

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