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Crock Pot cilantro lime chicken, ready for tacos.

Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
Bright, zesty, and effortlessly delicious — this Crock Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken is your new go-to for easy weeknight meals and Taco Tuesday triumphs. Just set it and forget it!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican-Inspired
Servings 6 servings
Calories 240 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 0.5 cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
  • 2 tbsp lime zest
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts.
  • In a bowl, mix lime juice, zest, cilantro, garlic, onion, jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the mixture over to coat evenly.
  • Pour in chicken broth and drizzle olive oil over the top.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  • Shred the chicken using two forks directly in the slow cooker.
  • Serve hot in tacos, bowls, burritos, salads, or nachos as desired.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for extra richness. Want heat? Add more jalapeño or cayenne. Stir in sour cream post-cook for a creamy twist. Leftovers are perfect for meal prep — freeze in portions for tacos, bowls, or burritos anytime!
Keyword cilantro lime chicken, crock pot chicken, slow cooker chicken, taco tuesday