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Mexican Pulled Chicken Shredded for Tacos and Bowls Recipe

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3.9 from 85 reviews

Juicy shredded chicken simmered with smoky spices and tomatoes, ideal for tacos, burrito bowls, or lettuce wraps. This Mexican Pulled Chicken is an effortless slow cooker recipe that infuses tender chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder for a bold, savory flavor perfect for a variety of meals.

  • Total Time: 6 hr 10 min
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Spices & Sauce

  • 1 cup salsa or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients: Gather all chicken and spice ingredients. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly into the slow cooker base.
  2. Add seasoning and salsa: Pour 1 cup of salsa or crushed tomatoes over the chicken. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly on top.
  3. Cook chicken: Cover the slow cooker and select the LOW setting. Cook the chicken for 6 hours, or alternatively use the HIGH setting for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily pulls apart.
  4. Shred chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and toss it in the flavorful juices to evenly coat.
  5. Serve: Serve the warm pulled chicken in tacos, burrito bowls, or wrapped in lettuce for a fresh and healthy option.

Notes

  • For richer flavor and juicier texture, substitute chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
  • Freeze any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.
  • Adjust salt and spice levels based on personal taste preferences.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 6 hr
  • Category: Dinner / Meal Prep
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free