Name: Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490736H37M35S
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1.5 lb / 750g boneless skinless chicken breast (~3 halves); 1/2 cup chipotles in adobo sauce (approx. 4 chipotle peppers with sauce); 14 oz / 400g can crushed tomatoes; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp onion powder (or garlic powder); 2 tsp sugar (any type); 3/4 tsp salt; Pepper, to taste; 3 tbsp olive oil, divided; 2 tbsp lime juice

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve been on the hunt for a flavorful, fuss-free dinner that feels like a big, warm hug, this Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. Bursting with smoky chipotle heat, balanced by the tang of lime and the richness of slow-cooked tomatoes, this dish is the perfect synthesis of comfort and zest. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe uses simple ingredients that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker, delivering tender, juicy chicken with a deep, authentic Mexican flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three scenes of making a rich shredded meat dish. The top-left part displays a black pot with six layers inside: a chunky red tomato base on the left, a creamy light beige sauce on the top right, some white liquid in the middle, dark red sauce at the top middle, and green herbs sprinkled in the center, all on top of shredded light brown meat. The top-right part shows the black pot again but now with three browned pieces of cooked meat sitting in deep dark brown sauce. The bottom part shows shredded meat piled high on a large white plate with a blue rim, with a thick dark brown sauce being poured from a glass jug held by a woman’s hand, and fresh green cilantro leaves on top. The background is white marbled. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential to nail the authentic spicy, smoky flavor and tender texture of our Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe. Each one plays its role perfectly—from the chipotle peppers adding smoky heat to the lime juice providing bright freshness.

1.5 lb / 750g chicken breast, skinless boneless (~3 halves): The lean protein that absorbs all the bold flavors beautifully while staying juicy and tender.
1/2 cup Chipotles in Adobo Sauce (4 chillies + sauce): This canned delight brings smoky heat and a rich depth, essential for that signature chipotle flavor.
14 oz / 400g can crushed tomatoes: Adds vibrant color and a slightly sweet, saucy base to balance the heat.
2 garlic cloves, crushed: Gives that unmistakable savory kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky chilies.
1 tsp each dried oregano, cumin powder, and onion powder (or garlic powder): These spices harmonize the flavors, enhancing the warmth and complexity of the sauce.
2 tsp sugar (any): Balances acidity from the tomatoes and adds a subtle sweetness to round out the sauce.
3/4 tsp salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together, seasoning the chicken perfectly.
Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth that complements the chipotle.
3 tbsp olive oil: Used for browning the chicken and enriching the sauce with a silky finish.
2 tbsp lime juice: Added at the end to brighten and add a fresh zing that lifts the whole dish.

How to Make Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Load Your Slow Cooker

Begin by placing the chicken breasts directly into your slow cooker. Pour over the crushed tomatoes, chipotles in adobo, crushed garlic, dried oregano, cumin, onion powder, sugar, salt, and freshly ground pepper. This simple layering of bold ingredients prepares the chicken to soak in incredible smoky, tangy depths during the cooking process. No need for extra steps or marinating—your slow cooker does all the magic here!

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker to low and let the mixture cook for about 4 hours. The chicken should cook until it’s tender enough to shred easily with two forks but not so long that it becomes mushy. This slow, gentle heat is key for infusing the rich flavors throughout the meat, resulting in juicy, flavorful shredded chicken that’s perfect for so many meals.

Step 3: Shred and Sauce it Up

Once your chicken is ready, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Then, prepare the sauce by adding lime juice and one tablespoon of olive oil to the sauce left in the slow cooker. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree until silky smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. This vibrant, smoky sauce will become the perfect finishing touch to toss your shredded chicken in.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken for Extra Flavor

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add about a third to half of your shredded chicken and fry it until the bottom turns a beautiful golden brown. Flip briefly to cook the other side without browning it too much, then remove to a plate. Repeat in batches with the remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed. This step adds a fantastic caramelized texture and depth of flavor to the chicken that makes it truly irresistible.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Finally, toss the freshly browned shredded chicken in the silky chipotle sauce to coat evenly, or serve the sauce on the side if preferred. This versatile dish is ready to shine in tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or simply over a bed of rice.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe

A close-up image of a bowl filled with shredded meat covered in a thick, rich, dark brown sauce. The bowl is white with a blue outer edge, and it is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. On top of the meat, there are a few sprigs of fresh green herbs for garnish. In the background, there is a soft, light gray cloth with slightly blurred silver forks resting on it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate this rich and smoky chicken beautifully. Try chopped cilantro for a bright herbal note, diced red onion for a crunchy bite, or a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat. Thinly sliced avocado or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco also provide creamy indulgence that pairs perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve this chicken with classic Mexican rice or creamy cilantro-lime rice to soak up all the sauce. A simple coleslaw with a light vinaigrette gives a fresh, crisp counterpoint, or opt for charred corn on the cob with butter and chili powder for a sweet and spicy sidekick. Beans—black or refried—round out the meal with hearty comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond tacos! Use the Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe to stuff vibrant roasted peppers or make crispy loaded tostadas topped with guacamole and pico de gallo. It’s sensational as a slider filling with pickled onions and juicy jalapeño slices, or inside enchiladas smothered with melted cheese and baked until bubbly. Let your imagination run wild with this versatile star!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping the chicken and sauce combined helps the flavors deepen, making the next day’s meal even tastier.

Freezing

This shredded chicken freezes exceptionally well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen shredded chipotle chicken will keep its flavor and texture for up to 3 months, making it a lifesaver for quick dinners down the line.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave leftovers covered for a minute or two, stirring halfway through for even warming. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra richness and stay juicy longer, making them a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary and shred once tender.

How spicy is the chipotle in this recipe?

The chipotles bring a moderate heat with a smoky depth that’s more about flavor than overwhelming spiciness. You can adjust the amount of chipotles or remove some seeds to tone down the heat if preferred.

Do I need to brown the chicken after shredding?

While optional, browning the shredded chicken adds an incredible caramelized texture and boosts the overall flavor dramatically. If you’re short on time, tossing the chicken directly into the sauce still yields delicious results.

Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes! If you’re short on time, cooking the chicken and sauce in a pressure cooker for about 35 minutes on high works beautifully and yields tender shredded chicken quickly.

What are some low-carb serving ideas for this chicken?

For a low-carb option, serve the shredded chipotle chicken over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside roasted vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal without the carbs.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a dish like the Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe—it’s no wonder it’s become a favorite for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. The combination of smoky chipotle heat, tender chicken, and vibrant sauce creates a meal that feels both exciting and familiar. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your home, loved by family and friends every time.

Slow Cooker Shredded Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need