Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos are the perfect blend of zesty, savory, and tangy flavors, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla. This recipe requires minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker, making it an easy, no-fuss dinner option that the whole family will love.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Itโs incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and your trusty slow cooker.
- Packed with bold ranch and taco seasoning flavors, these tacos are anything but boring.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
- Customizable with your favorite taco toppings, from shredded cheese to fresh avocado.
- The slow-cooked chicken is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Taco seasoning mix
- Chicken broth or water
- Your favorite taco shells or tortillas
Directions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ranch and taco seasoning mixes over the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth or water over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks, mixing it with the juices in the slow cooker for added flavor.
- Serve the chicken in taco shells or tortillas and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย 6-8 tacos (depending on portion size and shell type)
- Prep Time:ย 5 minutes
- Cook Time:ย 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time:ย 6-8 hours 5 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick:ย Add a diced jalapeรฑo or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker for an extra kick.
- Cheesy Tacos:ย Top the shredded chicken with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving.
- Low-Carb Option:ย Use lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a keto-friendly version.
- Vegetarian Version:ย Swap chicken with jackfruit for a plant-based alternative.
- Different Flavors:ย Experiment with other seasoning blends, such as fajita seasoning or chipotle powder.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing:ย Place shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:ย Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work just as well and will add extra juiciness.
2. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
3. Do I have to use ranch seasoning?
While it adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
4. What toppings go best with these tacos?
Classic options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, shredded cheese, and guacamole.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
6. Are there gluten-free options?
Ensure your taco shells and seasoning mixes are labeled gluten-free.
7. Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer the ingredients in a covered pot over low heat for about 2-3 hours.
8. Whatโs the best way to shred the chicken?
Use two forks, or for quicker results, a hand mixer on low speed.
9. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, you can add bell peppers, onions, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
10. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure itโs fully thawed before adding to the slow cooker for even cooking.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves easy, flavorful meals. Whether youโre hosting taco night or looking for a meal-prep-friendly option, these tacos deliver every time. Customize them with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner!
PrintSlow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 4 to 6 hours and 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Slow Cooker Cool Ranch Chicken Tacos are a breeze to make and packed with flavor. Chicken breasts are slow-cooked with taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix until tender, then shredded and served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. Perfect for a fuss-free meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Taco shells or tortillas, for serving
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning and ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it well with the juices.
- Serve the shredded chicken in taco shells or tortillas, and add your preferred toppings.
Notes
- For a lower sodium option, consider using homemade taco and ranch seasoning mixes.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- This shredded chicken is versatile and can also be used for burritos, nachos, salads, or quesadillas.
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