Slow Cooker Taco Chicken & Rice – Easy, Cheesy & Flavorful!

If you’re looking for an easy, flavor-packed dinner, this Slow Cooker Taco Chicken & Rice recipe is perfect for you! This dish combines tender shredded chicken, bold taco seasoning, and cheesy rice, making it an irresistible family favorite. The best part? The slow cooker does all the hard work for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Flavor Explosion – The combination of taco seasoning, garlic, onion, and cumin creates a rich and bold taste.
• One-Pot Meal – No need to juggle multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together!
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it as-is, in tortillas, or topped with your favorite garnishes.
• Meal Prep Friendly – This dish stores and reheats well, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Taco Chicken & Rice

To create this mouthwatering meal, you’ll need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned, drained)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lime (optional, for a fresh citrus kick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Sprinkle them with taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin for that delicious Mexican-inspired flavor. Then, pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth over the top.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with bold, rich flavors that make this dish truly irresistible.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken & Add Rice

Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Stir in the black beans, corn, and uncooked rice. Mix well so that everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and let the rice cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is soft and has absorbed all the delicious flavors.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Serve

Once the rice is perfectly cooked, sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese over the top. Cover for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a final touch of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Cooker Taco Chicken & Rice is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:

• Serve as a hearty bowl meal with a dollop of sour cream and avocado slices.
• Spoon it into warm tortillas for easy burritos or soft tacos.
• Use it as a filling for enchiladas and top with extra cheese and salsa.
• Enjoy it over crispy tortilla chips for a tasty nacho-style dish.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Taco Chicken & Rice

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to add extra broth and increase the cooking time by about 20-30 minutes.

2. What type of cheese works best?

A Mexican blend cheese is ideal, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for added spice.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce to turn up the heat.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide a juicier texture.

5. Do I have to cook the rice separately?

No, the uncooked rice cooks directly in the slow cooker, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

6. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook the chicken mixture on high pressure for 10 minutes, shred it, then add rice and cook on high pressure for another 5 minutes.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Slow Cooker Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal, this Slow Cooker Taco Chicken & Rice is a must-try! With minimal effort, you get a flavor-packed dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you serve it as a hearty bowl, in tortillas, or as a fun nacho topping, you’ll love how versatile and delicious this dish is. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and crave-worthy!

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