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Juicy Never-Dry Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast Recipe with Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning

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This juicy never-dry crockpot shredded chicken breast recipe uses a homemade taco seasoning blend and slow cooker method to deliver tender, flavorful chicken perfect for tacos, salads, and quick dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or thawed from frozen)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (240 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground if possible)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Taco Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until evenly blended (about 2 minutes).
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, then sprinkle the homemade taco seasoning evenly over each piece. Press the spices into the chicken for full coverage (about 5 minutes).
  3. Place Chicken in Crockpot: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Pour the chicken broth around the edges, avoiding rinsing the seasoning off (1-2 minutes).
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours, but low is best for juicy results. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
  5. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts and place on a large plate or cutting board. Use two forks or tongs to shred the meat until moist but not watery (5-7 minutes).
  6. Return Shredded Chicken to Crockpot: Pour any juices left in the crockpot back over the shredded chicken to keep it juicy. Stir gently to combine and keep warm until serving.

Notes

Use low and slow cooking to keep chicken juicy. Do not skip the broth as it retains moisture. Shred chicken just before serving to avoid dryness. Season chicken before cooking for best flavor. If chicken seems dry, add extra broth or olive oil before shredding. The seasoning blend can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: shredded chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken, taco seasoning, juicy chicken, easy dinner, homemade taco seasoning, shredded chicken breast

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/juicy-never-dry-crockpot-shredded-chicken-breast-recipe-with-easy-homemade-taco-seasoning/