Looking for a dish that’s quick and easy? Try this crockpot taco chicken nachos recipe! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it cook. You’ll get tender chicken with taco flavors, all on crispy tortilla chips.

This recipe is super versatile. It’s great for any occasion and Superbowl Sundays, always a crowd-pleaser.

Introduction to Crockpot Taco Chicken Nachos

Crockpot taco chicken nachos are a tasty twist on regular nachos. They feature chicken slow-cooked in taco seasonings, making it juicy and flavorful. This dish is not only filling but also perfect for game day feasts or family dinners.

The beauty of making tacos in crockpot chicken is how the slow-cooking process enhances the flavors. With just a 10-minute prep time, the crockpot does most of the work 2-3 hours on LOW. You can focus on other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection. I love how the chicken absorbs the taco seasonings, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and subtle garlic hints.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s great for both beginners and experienced cooks looking to simplify dinner prep. Serving suggestions are endless; imagine a nacho bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and more.

The convenience of storing the chicken mixture is a big plus. It can be refrigerated for up to four days, making a quick and hearty meal ready to reheat. You can also turn leftovers into tacos, or enchiladas, or serve the mixture over rice. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients and Measurements Needed for Crockpot Chicken Nachos

Before you start making this amazing crockpot chicken nacho recipe, let’s get all the ingredients and measurements ready. This makes sure your cooking goes smoothly from start to finish.

Chicken

2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the base. This lean protein soaks up all the flavors well. If you want it juicier, chicken thighs are a good choice.

Salsa

16 oz jar of salsa. Choose your preferred heat level. Salsa adds moisture and flavor. I like medium salsa for a balanced taste.

Taco Seasoning

3 tablespoons of taco seasoning. Pick low sodium to control salt. You can also make your own blend. Here’s a simple one:

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 2 tbsp cumin
• 2 tbsp salt (or to taste)
• 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper
• 3 whole dried guajillo peppers (optional for those extra brave enjoyers of heat!)

Chicken Broth

1 cup of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. Use low-sodium broth for a healthier dish. This makes your tacos tender and full of flavor.

Cheese

Cheese blends always add extra flavor to this recipe I use a pre-shredded Mexican blend of about 18 ounces.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making crockpot chicken nachos is simple. Follow this easy guide to impress everyone.

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by putting 3 seasoned chicken breasts in your crockpot. I like using natural Celtic sea salt. Then, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning over the chicken. This will give it that tasty taco flavor we all enjoy.

Pro Tip: Add salsa during cooking time for extra flavor.

Cooking in the Crockpot

Next, add enough chicken broth to cover the chicken (about 1 cup). Set your crockpot to high and cook for 1 hour.

After 2 hours add 1/2 the salsa and stir quickly – you don’t want to let the heat out of your slow cooker. Set the timer to LOW for 2 hours and continue cooking until the time is up.

Shredding the Chicken

When finished, take the chicken out of the crockpot and shred it in a large bowl. Use two forks to shred it well. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred, perfect for nachos.

Adding Cheese

Put the shredded chicken back in the crockpot. Stir occasionally until the cheese melts and everything mixes well. This makes a creamy, savory base for your nachos.

Layer tortilla chips on a large platter. Spoon the chicken mixture over them. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, and green onions. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken nachos!

Equipment You Will Need

Starting this cooking adventure, a good crockpot is key! A Crockpot or Instant Pot model is my top pick. They cook chicken evenly, keeping it moist and flavorful. This is true whether you’re using frozen or fresh chicken.

Crockpot

The crockpot is the heart of the process I use my everyday 6-quart slow cooker. A quality crockpot makes cooking easy and ensures great results. Just add your ingredients, set the timer, and enjoy the smell of delicious chicken tacos.

Convenience is important. The crockpot lets you do other things while it cooks. When you’re ready, you’ll have warm, tasty chicken tacos for everyone to enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Nachos

To make the best crockpot chicken taco recipes easy, you need the right ingredients and some smart tips. Follow these guidelines to get the perfect taco chicken every time!

Choosing the Right Salsa

Choosing the right salsa is key. Pick a high-quality salsa with low water content. This prevents a runny base and makes your nachos thicker and richer. Tostitos or homemade salsa are great options!

Preventing a Runny Mixture

To avoid a watery mix, it’s important to control the liquid. Cooking the taco chicken a bit longer on high can help. Also, remove the lid towards the end to let some liquid evaporate.

Using Different Cheeses

The cheese you choose can really boost your nachos’ flavor. While Mexican blend cheese is classic, try sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or spicy pepper jack for new flavors. Each cheese melts differently, so mix them to find your favorite!

Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to serve these tasty Crockpot Taco Chicken Nachos. Start by spreading the chicken mix over crispy tortilla chips. This dish is easy to make in your slow cooker and feeds a crowd with little effort.

Top your nachos with fresh, tasty toppings. Must-haves include diced jalapeños for heat, creamy guacamole, tangy sour cream, and extra salsa. Black beans on the side add protein and fiber. You can also add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced black olives for extra flavor.

For a well-rounded meal, serve the chicken tacos with a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect. You could also offer Spanish rice or extra tortilla chips for crunch lovers.

Hosting a party? Set up a nacho bar! Arrange all toppings and sides in bowls. This lets guests create their perfect nachos, making them fun and personalized.

These crockpot taco chicken nachos are very versatile. You can make them healthier by skipping the queso and adding more veggies. For a spicy twist, use hot salsa and add pickled jalapeños.

Remember to have sliced limes ready. A squeeze of lime juice can really boost the flavors. With these tips, your slow cooker chicken tacos will be a hit at any gathering.

Alternative Ways to Use the Chicken Mixture

Want to get creative with your slow-cooked chicken? There are many ways to enjoy it. Try making rotel chicken tacos or a cozy fajita casserole. The options are endless.

Chicken Tacos

Turn your chicken into tasty tacos! Fill taco shells with the chicken, then add lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream. These tacos are a hit for taco nights.

Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas

Make cheesy enchiladas with your chicken. Roll it in tortillas, cover with sauce and cheese, and bake until golden. Serve with rice or a salad for a comforting meal.

Chicken Over Rice

For a hearty meal, serve the chicken over rice. Add cilantro and lime for extra taste. This dish is also great for a fajita casserole. Just add bell peppers, onions, and cheese.

Storing and Reheating

After enjoying your Crockpot Chicken Nachos, it’s important to store leftovers right. I keep the leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. This recipe stays fresh for up to three days.

To reheat, the stovetop or microwave works best. Stir occasionally to heat evenly. You can even reheat it in the crockpot for chicken soft tacos.

Don’t store the nachos with tortilla chips. Soggy chips are a no-go! Keep chips separate and mix them just before serving for that perfect crunch.

If you freeze the chicken, it lasts 2-3 months. Just thaw it before reheating.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Looking to spice up your crockpot recipes or try a new twist on taco chicken nachos? Here are some exciting variations and substitutions. These changes can let you explore different flavors and textures, making every meal a new adventure!

Using Rotel for a Spicy Kick

Want a bit more heat in your chicken fajita casserole? Try adding Rotel tomatoes. They mix diced tomatoes with green chilies, adding a spicy kick. This enhances the flavors of your easy crockpot dinners. Just swap your regular salsa with Rotel for a fun twist.

Substitute Chicken Thighs

Prefer a juicier and more tender bite? Use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs stay moist in the slow cooker, even with longer cooking times. This keeps you tender and full of flavor.

Different Types of Tortilla Chips

Trying different tortilla chips can also boost your dish. Flavored chips like Nacho Cheese Doritos add extra taste. Multigrain or blue corn chips offer a unique crunch and nutrition. Have fun mixing and matching to find the perfect match for your dish.

Popular Crockpot Chicken Cooking Questions

When making these delicious and healthy crockpot tacos, you might have a few questions in mind. Let me answer some of the most popular ones to help you perfect this easy and nutritious meal!

How can I adjust the spice level? If you love a bit of kick, consider adding an extra 4.5 ounces of diced green chiles or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of taco seasoning.

How can I make this dish even healthier? To boost the nutritional content, you can mix in more veggies like bell peppers or add a side of fresh guacamole.

Can I use a different cut of chicken? Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, you can also substitute chicken thighs for a more tender and flavorful result. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly (6 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high). For reference, 3 pounds of chicken breasts are generally required.

How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, place the mixture in freezer-safe plastic bags, flatten for easy stacking, and freeze for up to 3 months. This ensures you always have a quick, healthy meal on hand!

Is it possible to cook the chicken from frozen? For food safety reasons, it’s highly recommended to avoid cooking chicken frozen in a slow cooker. Always thaw the chicken properly before cooking.

Can I make this dish more fiber-rich? Indeed, incorporating beans like black beans or pinto beans (a good source of fiber) can increase the fiber content to support digestion. Each serving already has 9 grams of fiber!

Enjoy This Easy Family Favorite

This recipe is a real winner. It’s quick to prepare and cooks for just over 4 hours. It’s a hit with families, making everyone feel full and content.

The dish is not only tasty but also healthy. Each serving has only 160 calories, with 14g of protein. It’s also full of good fats and fiber. It’s perfect for those looking for simple, wholesome meals.

The slow cooker makes cooking easy, needing just 3 hours on a combination of high and low. Once ready, enjoy the flavors. These nachos are great for any occasion, bringing joy and ease to your meals.

Crockpot Chicken Nachos Recipe Card

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!