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Slow Cooker Queso Chicken Tacos

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds; thighs also work)
  • Queso dip (store-bought refrigerated or jarred; 12–16 ounces)
  • Rotel-style diced tomatoes with green chiles (1 can, undrained)
  • Chicken broth (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened; optional for extra creaminess)
  • Yellow onion (1 small, finely chopped)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Taco seasoning (1 packet or 2–3 tablespoons homemade)
  • Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
  • Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Lime (1, for juice and wedges)
  • Cilantro (1/4 cup chopped)
  • Corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
  • Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, avocado, salsa, hot sauce, cotija or shredded Mexican blend cheese

Instructions
 

  • Prep the slow cooker: Lightly spray the insert with oil or use a liner for easy cleanup.
  • Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry. Sprinkle with taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Place in the slow cooker.
  • Add aromatics and liquids: Scatter chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles (including juices) and chicken broth.
  • Slow cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds.
  • Shred the chicken: Transfer chicken to a cutting board. Shred with two forks, then return to the slow cooker.
  • Stir in the queso: Add the queso dip and cream cheese (if using). Stir until melted and smooth. Cover and cook on Low for another 15–20 minutes to fully combine. Squeeze in the juice of half a lime and add chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  • Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap in a damp towel and microwave in 20–30 second bursts until pliable.
  • Assemble: Spoon queso chicken into tortillas. Add your favorite toppings. Finish with an extra squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro.
  • Serve: Pair with rice and beans, a simple slaw, or chips and salsa for a complete meal.