This easy Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas recipe is all about tender chicken, colorful peppers, and tasty spices, slowly cooked to perfection. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy the smell wafting through your home!
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I like to serve these fajitas with warm tortillas and my favorite toppings—lots of guacamole, please! 🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is best for this recipe. If you want something leaner, turkey breast is a great substitute. You could even use chicken thighs for a juicier option!
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colorful bell peppers for a vibrant dish. If you’re out of bell peppers, try using sliced zucchini or mushrooms instead. They add a different flavor while still being delicious!
Diced Tomatoes: The canned tomatoes enhance flavor, but you can use fresh tomatoes or even salsa if that’s what you have on hand. For a lower sodium option, use no-salt-added tomatoes.
Spices: The spice mix is key to flavor; feel free to personalize it! You can add taco seasoning instead for convenience. If you’re avoiding spicy food, skip the cayenne pepper or reduce it.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can feel messy, but it’s super simple! After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps it cool down a bit for easier handling.
- Use two forks: Hold one fork to stabilize the chicken and shred with the other.
- Or, use a stand mixer: Place the chicken in the bowl and beat it on low speed using the paddle attachment. It’ll shred in seconds!
Once shredded, mix it back into the crock pot with everything else. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced into strips
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
For the Seasonings:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (optional, for sautéing)
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by cooking for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. Just set it and forget it until dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. It’s like laying the perfect foundation for a delicious taco feast! Then, layer the sliced bell peppers and onion right on top of the chicken. The colors will make you smile!
2. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine all the spices: chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix them well, then sprinkle this flavorful blend evenly over the chicken and veggies.
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Next, add the minced garlic and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of spice—the tomatoes just add so much flavor! Now, pour the chicken broth or water over everything to help it cook to perfection.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and the veggies tender when you’re ready to eat!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once it’s all cooked, take the chicken out and shred it using two forks. It’s super easy and fun! Return the shredded chicken to the pot and give everything a good stir to mix those delicious flavors.
6. Final Touches:
Let the mixture cook on low for another 10-15 minutes to meld all the yummy flavors together. This is the perfect time to warm up your tortillas!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, scoop some of your tasty chicken fajitas onto a warm tortilla and load it up with your favorite toppings. Enjoy your delicious, easy Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas with family or friends!
Bon appétit! 🥳
FAQ: Easy Crock Pot Chicken Fajitas
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to adjust the cooking time. If using frozen chicken breasts, cook on high for 4-5 hours instead of the usual high 3-4 hours to ensure it cooks through completely. Always check the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken fajitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. For best results, add a splash of broth to prevent drying out!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mix or add diced jalapeños along with the vegetables. You can also serve with hot sauce as a topping for an extra kick!
What Should I Serve with Chicken Fajitas?
These fajitas are fantastic in flour or corn tortillas. You can also serve them over rice or a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option. Don’t forget to include your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro for added flavor!