If you’re craving a flavorful, easy-to-make dish with a Mexican twist, this Mexican Pulled Chicken is the perfect recipe to try. It’s versatile and can be used in tacos, burritos, or served over rice for a hearty meal. With the combination of tender chicken, taco seasoning, and zesty lime, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this Mexican Pulled Chicken recipe because it’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly easy to make. The chicken becomes tender and juicy after simmering in a mix of diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, and taco seasoning. The best part is how simple it is to prepare – just sauté the aromatics, cook the chicken, and let it simmer until perfectly tender. Once shredded, the chicken can be used in so many different dishes, making it the ultimate versatile meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead for a tasty meal.
Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 packet taco seasoning
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Cook Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the pot, season with salt and pepper. Pour in diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
Simmer: Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred Chicken: Remove chicken from the pot and shred using two forks.
Finish and Serve: Return shredded chicken to the pot, mix with the sauce, and add freshly squeezed lime juice. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes around 2-3 hours of cooking time for the chicken to become tender and shreddable. The active preparation time is about 10-15 minutes, so it’s a great set-and-forget meal that doesn’t require constant attention.
Variations
Add Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, corn, or even black beans to the mix to increase the vegetable content and add more texture.
Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, try adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder.
Slow Cooker Version: If you prefer using a slow cooker, just place all the ingredients in the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Shredded Beef: Swap the chicken for beef for a variation on the classic pulled meat.
Storage/Reheating
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, this pulled chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a pot over low heat with a bit of extra chicken broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a little splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
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FAQs:
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you want more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot. You can also try adding extra taco seasoning or chili powder for added spice.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer a bit more flavor and moisture. Just cook them the same way, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
How can I serve this Mexican Pulled Chicken?
This pulled chicken is incredibly versatile! I love serving it in tacos, burritos, or over a salad. It’s also delicious as a filling for quesadillas, on top of nachos, or with rice.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors actually improve after a day or two, so it’s great for meal prepping. You can store the cooked pulled chicken in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Mexican Pulled Chicken?
You can pair this pulled chicken with a variety of sides, like Mexican rice, guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad. I also love adding a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Conclusion:
Mexican Pulled Chicken is one of my go-to recipes because it’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. I can use it in so many different dishes, from tacos to salads, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The tender chicken, combined with the rich taco seasoning and zesty lime, makes this recipe a perfect addition to any meal plan. Whether I’m looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or prepare a meal for a crowd, this dish always hits the mark.
📖 Recipe:
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Mexican Pulled Chicken
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
Description
Discover how to make flavorful Mexican Pulled Chicken, perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a versatile protein addition to your meals.
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 packet taco seasoning
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Place chicken breasts in the pot, season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Remove chicken from the pot and shred using two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot, mix with the sauce, and add lime juice.
- Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Notes
Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
This dish freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serves 4-6
