Nothing beats delicious homemade tacos, especially when they’re made effortlessly in one pot. Thanks to the slow cooker, these easy tomatillo chicken soft tacos bring bold flavors with minimal effort.
The rich combination of store-bought tomatillo salsa, fresh poblano chiles, and tender chicken thighs creates an irresistible filling. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Why This Slow Cooker Recipe Works
This one-pot recipe simplifies taco preparation without sacrificing flavor. The slow cooker gently infuses the chicken with the vibrant taste of salsa verde, making every bite juicy and delicious.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the ideal choice because they become incredibly tender and easy to shred. Fresh poblanos provide a mild heat, while oregano adds a subtle herbal touch.
The final addition of lime juice and cilantro brightens the dish, creating a perfectly balanced taco filling.
How to Customize Your Tacos
This one-pot recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit different preferences. Try these modifications to switch things up:
- Make it spicier – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Swap the protein – Use boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option or shredded pork for a richer taste.
- Go dairy-free – Skip the cheese or sour cream and load up on avocado instead.
- Try different tortillas – Flour tortillas are soft and chewy, but corn tortillas add a traditional touch.
Time-Saving Meal Prep Tips
If you want to save even more time, here are some easy ways to prepare in advance:
- Chop ahead – Dice the poblanos and store them in an airtight container.
- Pre-mix seasonings – Combine salt, pepper, and oregano beforehand to streamline cooking.
- Make and freeze – Cook a batch, shred the chicken, and freeze portions for quick meals.
- Use a liner – Slow cooker liners make cleanup effortless and reduce dishwashing time.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of these tacos is how easily they pair with various toppings and sides. Here are some ways to enhance your meal:
- Toppings: Diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream, or sliced radishes.
- Sides: Mexican-style rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad.
- Extra crunch: Shredded cabbage or pickled red onions for added texture.
A One-Pot Meal for Any Occasion
This easy tomatillo chicken taco recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple, flavorful meals. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or need a quick dinner, this slow cooker dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a delicious, one-pot meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Easy to Prep Tomatillo Chicken Soft Tacos One-Pot Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Tongs
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup jarred tomatillo or tomato salsa
- 2 poblano chiles stemmed, seeded, and chopped
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh oregano or ¼ teaspoon dried
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
- ¼ cup minced fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 18 6-inch flour tortillas, warmed
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine salsa, poblanos, salt, pepper, and oregano. Nestle chicken into the mixture, cover, and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Using tongs, shred the chicken into bite-size pieces. Stir in cilantro and lime juice, then season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm with tortillas, and garnish with optional toppings like lime wedges, diced avocado, queso fresco, or sour cream.
Notes
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.