Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken Tacos (Printable)
Tender ranch-seasoned shredded chicken, slow-cooked and served in crispy taco shells with fresh toppings.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken & Seasonings
01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
03 - 1 tsp garlic powder
04 - 1 tsp onion powder
05 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
06 - ½ tsp black pepper
→ Liquids & Canned Goods
07 - 1 cup chicken broth
08 - 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
→ For Serving
09 - 8 small taco shells or tortillas (corn or flour)
10 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
11 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 - ½ cup sour cream
13 - ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
14 - Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
02 - Sprinkle ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
03 - Pour chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, including juices, over the seasoned chicken.
04 - Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
05 - Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stir to combine with the cooking juices, and let it rest for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
06 - Warm taco shells or tortillas in a dry skillet, oven, or microwave until pliable.
07 - Divide the ranch chicken evenly among the warmed taco shells, then top with shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro as desired. Serve immediately.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- You literally dump everything in a slow cooker and walk away, which feels like cheating but tastes like effort.
- The ranch seasoning does something magical with the tomatoes and chilies that makes people think you spent all day cooking.
02 -
- Do not skip the 10 minute soak after shredding because that is when the chicken transforms from good to memorable.
- Opening the slow cooker lid repeatedly lets heat escape and extends the cooking time, so resist the urge to peek.
03 -
- Shred the chicken while it is still hot because cold chicken fights back and turns into a stringy mess.
- Use the leftover cooking liquid as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over the assembled tacos for extra moisture.