Queso Chicken Tacos

Queso Chicken Tacos are the perfect way to bring everyone together for a cozy meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these tacos are a delightful, cheesy treat. Picture this: tender chicken soaked in zesty spices, all topped with a creamy queso that makes every bite unforgettable. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good taco night?

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Queso Chicken Tacos
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Chicken Mixture
• Prepare the Slow Cooker
• Add the Chicken
• Season the Chicken
• Add Tomatoes and Chiles
• Cook the Chicken
• Shredding and Mixing
• Shred the Cooked Chicken
• Mix in Queso
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

The beauty of Queso Chicken Tacos is their simplicity. You can prep the ingredients with just a few steps, and then let your slow cooker work its magic. You’ll be greeted by an incredible aroma that fills your home with warmth. It’s basically a party in your kitchen! Plus, it’s a dish that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings. So, gather your family and friends, and get ready to dig into some amazing flavors together. Let’s jump right into this scrumptious recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

Queso Chicken Tacos are a delicious fusion of flavors that make weeknight dinners feel special without the hassle. The slow cooker method ensures that the chicken becomes tender and infused with spices, elevating your taco game effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Queso Chicken Tacos

Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of cheesy, seasoned chicken waiting for you! These tacos are not just quick and easy; they are designed for everyone—from busy families to casual cooks looking for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2-3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 4 medium-sized chicken breasts)
• 1 ounce package mild taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 10-ounce can mild diced tomatoes with green chilies, including juice
• 4-ounce can diced green chiles
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 15-ounce container salsa con queso
• Street taco size flour tortillas
• Optional garnishes: shredded lettuce, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro

Preparing the Chicken Mixture

Prepare the Slow Cooker

First things first, lightly spray the inside of a 5-6 quart slow cooker with nonstick spray for easy cleanup. This little step makes a big difference when it’s time to wash up later.

Add the Chicken

Next, lay the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the prepared slow cooker. This positioning allows for even cooking and helps keep the chicken juicy.

Season the Chicken

Now, sprinkle the taco seasoning, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper evenly over the chicken breasts. This creates a flavor-packed base, ready for all the scrumptious additions to come.

Add Tomatoes and Chiles

Pour the 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, along with the 4-ounce can of diced green chiles, over the seasoned chicken. The juices from these ingredients will soak into the chicken perfectly.

Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. While it cooks, you can relax and think about all the tasty toppings you’ll add later!

Shredding and Mixing

Shred the Cooked Chicken

Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right inside the slow cooker. Mixing it with all those flavorful juices makes each taco more delicious.

Mix in Queso

Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour the 15-ounce container of salsa con queso over the shredded chicken and stir until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture is going to be the star of your tacos!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Queso Chicken in warm street taco size flour tortillas. Enhance them with optional garnishes like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for added freshness. Don’t be afraid to get creative—these toppings will add a pop of color and flavor!

Tips for Success

• If you crave more spice, consider using spicy salsa con queso or adding jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
• Store any cooked chicken that you don’t use in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Chicken Variants: Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer a juicier texture. Chicken thighs can add a different depth of flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a can of black beans instead of chicken. Just heat them until warm to keep it simple.

Storage Tips

Leftover Queso Chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If you’re not planning to eat it soon, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Pairing Ideas

These Queso Chicken Tacos pair excellently with a side of Mexican street corn, a fresh guacamole dip, or a light salad. Such sides can balance the richness of the dish and add even more deliciousness to your meal.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
Yes, using frozen chicken breasts is perfectly fine! Just remember to extend the cooking time by an hour.

2. How can I make homemade taco seasoning?
It’s easy! Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano for a robust homemade taco seasoning.

3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything in the slow cooker pot and refrigerate overnight. Cook it in the morning for a hot, delicious dinner.

4. What can I substitute for salsa con queso?
If you need an alternative, cream cheese mixed with shredded cheese can create a similar creamy texture that’s just as tasty.

5. Are there gluten-free alternatives for tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas or any gluten-free tortilla option that you like.

Whether you’re gearing up for taco night or hosting a casual gathering, Queso Chicken Tacos are sure to impress with their rich flavors and delightful toppings. With this easy recipe and room for creativity, they are perfect for winding down after a busy day or celebrating with friends. Your taste buds will thank you as you wrap these scrumptious tacos in warm tortillas!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Beef Taco Salad
• Cucumber Caprese Salad
• Avocado Tuna Salad
• Turkey Pesto Sandwich

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