Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe

This slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a burst of flavor with minimal prep. Combining sweet honey and smoky chipotle peppers, it creates a mouthwatering combination that's sure to please taco lovers of all ages.

Photos of Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe

Among the ingredient list, chipotle peppers and adobo sauce may not be typically found in your pantry. These are often located in the international foods aisle at the supermarket. Chipotle peppers are jalapenos that have been smoked and dried, while adobo sauce is a spicy and slightly sweet marinade, often sold in the same can as the peppers.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Chicken breasts: These serve as the primary protein for this dish and absorb the flavors of the other ingredients well.

Tomato sauce: It provides a rich base for the honey chipotle sauce.

Honey: It adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance out the spiciness of the chipotle peppers.

White onion: It adds a sharpness and depth of flavor to the sauce.

Lime: Its acidity brightens up the flavors and adds a fresh touch to the dish.

Garlic powder: It adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the sauce.

Kosher salt: It enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Black pepper: It adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.

Chipotle peppers: They add a smoky heat to the sauce.

Adobo sauce: This spicy and slightly sweet sauce enriches the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Flour tortillas: They serve as the vessel for the flavorful chicken filling and toppings.

Toppings: Including queso fresco, red onion, radish, and cilantro add a fresh and tangy finish to the tacos.

One reader, Keary Creighton says:

This slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the chicken turns out so tender. It's super easy to make and perfect for a busy weeknight. The combination of sweet and spicy is just perfect. I highly recommend trying it out!

Keary Creighton

Techniques Required for Making Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

How to shred the chicken: Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken in the slow cooker. Pull the forks in opposite directions to create shredded pieces. Mix the shredded chicken with the sauce to ensure it's evenly coated.

How to serve: Set out a stack of warm flour tortillas and arrange the toppings, including queso fresco, diced red onion, sliced radish, and fresh cilantro. Allow everyone to assemble their own tacos directly from the slow cooker.

How To Make Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Made with juicy shredded chicken, spicy chipotle peppers, and sweet honey, this slow cooker chicken tacos is a wonderful dish for every meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbschicken breasts,boneless, skinless, thighs, or a mix
½cuptomato sauce,plain
¼cuphoney
½white onion,chopped
1lime,juiced about 2 tablespoons
1tspgarlic powder
½tspkosher salt
½tspblack pepper
3chipotle peppers,from a can of Chipotles en Adobo, chopped stems and seeds removed
2tbspAdobo sauce,from a can of Chipotles en Adobo
1pkgflour tortillas,soft

For the Toppings:

queso fresco,crumbled
red onion,diced
radish,diced
cilantro,fresh

Instructions

Combine the chicken, tomato sauce, honey, onion, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker. Add 1 to 3 chopped chipotle peppers and 1 to 2 tablespoons of Adobo sauce, depending on your preferred level of heat.
Mix together well.
Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours.
At the end of cooking time, use two forks to shred chicken in the pot. Mix the shredded chicken with the sauce.
At this point, the chicken can be held in a warm setting, covered, for 1 to 2 hours. Stir additional water as needed if the pot starts to become dry.
Set out a stack of tortillas and all the toppings. Assemble and serve the tacos from the slow cooker.

Nutrition

Calories: 300.38kcal
Fat: 10.06g
Saturated Fat: 2.42g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.45g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.41g
Carbohydrates: 34.27g
Fiber: 2.05g
Sugar: 9.81g
Protein: 18.65g
Cholesterol: 43.54mg
Sodium: 718.68mg
Calcium: 95.83mg
Potassium: 326.38mg
Iron: 2.49mg
Vitamin A: 155.32µg
Vitamin C: 18.67mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

For a more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey chipotle sauce overnight before slow cooking. This allows the chicken to absorb more of the sauce's flavors, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat. Additionally, when shredding the chicken, make sure to mix it well with the sauce in the slow cooker. This ensures that every bite of your taco is packed with the sweet and smoky honey chipotle flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Prep ahead: Chop the onions and mix the sauce the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-shredded chicken: If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked and shredded chicken to cut down on the cooking time.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Slow cooker liners: Consider using slow cooker liners for easy cleanup, saving time on washing up.

Meal prep: Plan ahead and prepare the toppings and tortillas in advance to streamline the taco assembly process.

Invest in a good slow cooker: A reliable slow cooker can save time and effort in the kitchen, making it a worthwhile investment.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that works well in slow-cooked recipes. It will absorb the flavors of the sauce and spices, creating a delicious taco filling.
tomato sauce - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can add a similar tomato base with added flavor from the peppers, onions, and spices. It will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the smoky chipotle peppers while adding a unique touch to the dish.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly stronger flavor than white onions, but they will still caramelize and add a sweet and savory element to the dish.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can provide the same citrusy brightness and acidity to balance the flavors in the dish.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic will add a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor compared to garlic powder, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
chipotle peppers - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a similar smoky flavor and mild heat, adding depth to the dish without the intense spiciness of chipotle peppers.
adobo sauce - Substitute with barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce can offer a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor profile similar to adobo sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used as a gluten-free alternative and will add a delicious, slightly nutty flavor to the tacos.
queso fresco - Substitute with cotija cheese: Cotija cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a suitable substitute for queso fresco in this recipe.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild onion flavor and a hint of sweetness, adding a delicate touch to the taco toppings.
radish - Substitute with jicama: Jicama can provide a similar crunchy texture and refreshing taste, adding a unique twist to the taco toppings.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can offer a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro, complementing the other ingredients in the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Consider using white or neutral-colored plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out.
Garnish with precision: Add a touch of finesse by garnishing the tacos with thinly sliced red onion, radish, and fresh cilantro. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of flavor and texture to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Introduce a textural element by lightly toasting the flour tortillas before serving. This adds a subtle crunch and depth of flavor to the tacos, elevating the overall dining experience.
Emphasize balance: Arrange the tacos in a way that showcases a balance of colors, ensuring that each component of the dish is thoughtfully presented. This attention to detail reflects a commitment to both visual and culinary excellence.
Highlight the main ingredient: Place the shredded honey chipotle chicken as the focal point of the dish, allowing its rich, flavorful appearance to take center stage. This draws attention to the star ingredient and emphasizes its importance in the overall composition.
Artful drizzling: Consider drizzling a small amount of honey over the plated tacos for a touch of elegance. This not only adds a glossy finish but also enhances the sweetness of the dish, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Precision plating: Pay close attention to the arrangement of the toppings, ensuring that each component is meticulously placed to create a visually striking and harmonious composition. This level of precision demonstrates a dedication to culinary artistry.

Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which requires maintaining a relatively low temperature (compared to other cooking methods such as baking, boiling, and frying), allowing unattended cooking for many hours.
Fork: A fork is a kitchen utensil that is typically used to lift food to the mouth or hold ingredients in place while they are being cut by a knife.
Lime squeezer: A lime squeezer is a handheld tool designed to extract juice from limes, lemons, and other small citrus fruits.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a durable board on which food is cut and prepared. It is commonly used in preparing food and is a safe surface for cutting and chopping.
Knife: A knife is a kitchen tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping various ingredients during food preparation.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
Tongs: Tongs are a versatile kitchen tool used for gripping and lifting food items, such as turning meat while cooking or serving salads.
Serving platter: A serving platter is a large, flat dish used for serving food, particularly for presenting and serving the prepared tacos.
Can opener: A can opener is a kitchen tool used to open metal cans.
Grater: A grater is a kitchen utensil used to grate foods into fine pieces or shreds. It is commonly used for grating cheese, vegetables, and citrus fruits.
Citrus zester: A citrus zester is a tool designed to remove the zest from citrus fruits, adding flavor to dishes.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is a long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients in cooking and baking.
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and reheating food.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is a thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used in cooking for lining baking sheets, wrapping food, and covering dishes to retain moisture while cooking.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap, also known as cling film, is a thin plastic film typically used for sealing food items in containers to keep them fresh.
Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is a kitchen tool used to measure the internal temperature of cooked meat to ensure it is safe to eat.
Serving utensils: Serving utensils, such as spoons and forks, are used for serving and portioning food onto plates or into bowls.
Storage containers: Storage containers are used for storing leftover food in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness.

Storing and Freezing Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Let the honey chipotle chicken cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled shredded chicken to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
If storing in the refrigerator, the chicken will keep for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 3 months.
- To freeze, portion the chicken into smaller airtight containers or resealable plastic bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy reference.
To thaw frozen honey chipotle chicken, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten it during reheating.
Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
Once reheated, the honey chipotle chicken can be used in tacos, burritos, salads, or any other desired dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Reheat the shredded chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method allows you to control the moisture content and prevent the chicken from drying out. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the meat moist.
For a quick and easy reheating option, place the leftover honey chipotle chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is heated through. The damp paper towel helps to retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
If you have leftover chicken and tortillas, you can assemble the tacos and wrap them in foil. Place the wrapped tacos in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to crisp up the tortillas while keeping the filling warm and moist.
For a crispy texture, place the leftover shredded chicken on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to crisp up. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning. Once crispy, remove from the oven and serve in fresh tortillas with your favorite toppings.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the honey chipotle chicken by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 45 minutes. This method ensures that the chicken is heated through evenly without drying out or overcooking.

Interesting Fact About Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

The slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe is a delicious and convenient meal option for busy days. It's a great way to infuse sweet and smoky flavors into the tender chicken. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, making it a hassle-free cooking experience. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, and it can easily be customized with various toppings to suit different tastes. Whether you're a fan of spicy food or prefer milder flavors, this dish can be adjusted to your liking. Enjoy the convenience and delicious taste of this honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe!

Is Making Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos at Home Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The use of chicken breasts and onion keeps the cost down, while the flavors are elevated with honey, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10 for its affordability, delicious flavors, and ease of preparation.

Are Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Healthy?

The slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe is a delicious and convenient meal, but it does have some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. Here's an analysis of the recipe:

Positives:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source
Onions and lime juice provide some vitamins and minerals
Chipotle peppers add flavor without excessive calories

Negatives:

The recipe includes honey, which is a source of added sugar
Flour tortillas are made from refined grains and lack fiber
Toppings like queso fresco can add significant amounts of saturated fat

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
Use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas to increase fiber intake
Opt for low-fat or fat-free queso fresco, or replace it with a healthier alternative like avocado or Greek yogurt
Add more vegetables to the taco filling, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, to boost the nutrient content
Serve the tacos with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a more balanced meal

Editor's Take on This Delicious Taco Recipe

The slow cooker honey chipotle chicken tacos recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors, creating a mouthwatering dish. The combination of honey, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce infuses the chicken with a rich and complex taste. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in tender and juicy chicken that is perfect for filling tacos. The addition of queso fresco, red onion, radish, and cilantro as toppings provides a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken. This recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests with its delicious and satisfying taste.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, finely chopped red onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Mango Salsa: Whip up a refreshing mango salsa with diced mangoes, red bell peppers, jalapenos, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy kick.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Prepare a fragrant and flavorful cilantro lime rice using long-grain rice, fresh cilantro, and a generous squeeze of zesty lime juice.

Similar Recipes to Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Spicy Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry: This stir-fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing salsa is a delightful mix of sweet mango, creamy avocado, and zesty lime juice. It's the perfect topping for grilled fish or chicken.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Indulge in the velvety smoothness of this creamy butternut squash soup, accented with warm spices and a hint of sweetness. It's the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Appetizers:

Crispy Calamari: Delight your taste buds with a crispy and tender calamari appetizer, served with a zesty marinara dipping sauce. The perfect combination of crunch and flavor will leave you wanting more.

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of our stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Each bite is a burst of deliciousness that will leave you craving for another serving.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful and succulent result, as the combination of honey and chipotle peppers creates a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious seasonings, resulting in tender and juicy meat. The addition of tomato sauce and adobo sauce further enhances the depth of flavor. With the option to adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, this recipe offers a customizable experience to suit individual preferences. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients to deliver an unforgettable taco feast.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. The thighs will add a richer flavor to the dish.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before opening the pot.

How spicy are the chipotle peppers in this recipe?

The spiciness of the chipotle peppers can vary, but generally, they add a medium level of heat to the dish. You can adjust the amount of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to control the spiciness.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and reheat it later. Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

What are some other topping options for these tacos?

Some other topping options for these tacos include avocado slices, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Feel free to get creative with your toppings!