Description
Slow Cooker Queso Chicken Tacos combine tender, slow-cooked chicken with creamy queso cheese and mild spices, creating a flavorful and cheesy taco filling. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for quick meals, family dinners, or casual get-togethers, delivering comfort food with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz queso cheese (smooth, melting type)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Garnishes & Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Small tortillas (corn or flour)
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer to ensure even cooking and tender results.
- Add Seasonings and Chiles: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Add canned diced green chiles for subtle tangy heat.
- Pour in the Queso: Pour the queso cheese over the chicken and spices to create a creamy layer that will melt during cooking.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is easy to shred.
- Shred and Mix: Shred the chicken directly inside the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it thoroughly with the queso and chilies for even flavor distribution.
- Serve Warm: Warm tortillas and spoon the hot, cheesy chicken mixture onto each. Add desired garnishes such as cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado, or sour cream, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use thick queso that melts easily but keeps a creamy texture without separating.
- Monitor cooking time to avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice or fresh cilantro at the end to brighten flavors.
- Chicken breasts work best for tenderness, though thighs can be used for juicier meat.
- Prepare ingredients the night before to save time on busy days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker, Queso Chicken, Tacos, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food, Mexican, Cheesy Chicken