The Best Pulled Chicken Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These The Best Pulled Chicken Tacos are everything you love about tacos—flavorful, juicy, and packed with toppings—all in one. Made with tender, perfectly seasoned pulled chicken, these tacos are both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quick meal with the family, this recipe is your go-to for a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dinner. The pulled chicken is easy to make in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, making this recipe perfect for any level of cooking experience. Top it with your favorite salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro for the ultimate taco experience.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8-10 small corn or flour tortillas
• Toppings (such as salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the skillet and season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and easy to shred.
   • Stovetop Method: For quicker cooking, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop. After the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the skillet using two forks.
   • Slow Cooker Method: Alternatively, place the chicken breasts or thighs, taco seasoning, onion, garlic, and chicken broth in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet or slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the juices and toss it to coat.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is being shredded, heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or on a grill for 30 seconds on each side until warm and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, spoon the pulled chicken onto each tortilla. Top with your favorite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a burst of fresh flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings (about 8-10 tacos)
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes (stovetop) or 4-5 hours (slow cooker)
• Total time: 25 minutes (stovetop) or 4-5 hours (slow cooker)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or some hot sauce to the shredded chicken for a spicy kick.
• Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken before shredding it.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for pulled jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly taco.
• Taco Bowls: Serve the pulled chicken over rice in a taco bowl with all your favorite toppings for a twist on the classic taco.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great choice for tacos! They are more flavorful and juicy, and they shred easily just like chicken breasts.

Can I make the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can cook the pulled chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it just before serving.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Just add it to the slow cooker with the seasoning and cook it for a longer period (6-7 hours on low). If you’re using the stovetop, it’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking.

Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely! For the Instant Pot, add the chicken, seasoning, and broth. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then shred the chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?

To ensure the chicken stays moist, cook it in a bit of broth or water, and always shred the chicken while it’s still in the cooking juices. This keeps the meat tender.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, using store-bought taco seasoning is perfectly fine for convenience. Just make sure to adjust the salt to your taste.

What toppings are best for pulled chicken tacos?

Some great toppings include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. You can also add pickled onions, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce for extra crunch.

Can I freeze the pulled chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of broth.

Can I make pulled chicken tacos in the oven?

While this recipe is designed for the stovetop or slow cooker, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes and then shred it with forks.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe on the stovetop. Just follow the stovetop directions, and you’ll have delicious pulled chicken in less than 30 minutes.

Conclusion

The Best Pulled Chicken Tacos are the ultimate in simple, flavorful, and customizable taco perfection. Whether you choose the stovetop or slow cooker method, the result is the same—tender, juicy chicken seasoned to perfection and ready to be piled high in soft tortillas. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy a satisfying meal that will become a regular in your taco night rotation.

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