Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of tender, saucy chicken that practically falls apart with the touch of a fork. These Slow Cooker Hoisin Chili Chicken Tacos are not just a meal—they're a culinary adventure that combines the bold flavors of Mexican and Asian cuisine in one mouthwatering dish. With just 10 minutes of prep and a magical 6-hour slow cooking process, you'll create a dinner that looks like you've been slaving in the kitchen all day, when in reality, your slow cooker did all the hard work!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup chili sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 12 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, chili sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooking is complete, remove chicken thighs from the slow cooker and transfer to a cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken meat, discarding any excess fat or bones.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the remaining sauce to ensure even coating.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- To assemble tacos, place shredded chicken in each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage and chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over tacos.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before slow cooking if time permits.
- Choose bone-in chicken thighs for extra richness and more tender meat.
- Don't skip warming the tortillas—it makes a huge difference in texture and taste.
- For a low-carb version, serve the chicken over a salad or in lettuce wraps.
- Customize your taco toppings! Consider adding quick-pickled onions, sliced jalapeños, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make excellent next-day lunch bowls or quick taco reheats.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 135mg
