A no-fuss, “set-it-and-forget-it” recipe that delivers incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful shredded chicken. It’s the ultimate weeknight hero for tacos, burritos, and more.
Author:Jose
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:4-5 hours (low)
Total Time:4 hr 30 min
Yield:11 servings 1x
Category:Main
Cuisine:Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Get Ready: Lightly grease your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Flavor: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. This step is a must for deep flavor.
Slow Cook: Transfer the seared chicken to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano over the top. Pour the can of diced tomatoes and chopped chipotle peppers over the chicken.
Cook Away: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours. The chicken is done when it’s so tender it practically falls apart.
Shred & Mix: Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir it into the rich sauce, and let it soak up all that goodness before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions: This chicken is amazing in tacos, quesadillas, burritos, or over rice. Don’t forget toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Spice Level: Start with 2 chipotle peppers for a good kick. Use less for milder chicken or more for extra heat.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also use the microwave in 30-second bursts.