Shredded Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos

These 30-minute Shredded Chicken Tacos are so flavourful – they can be made in the Instant Pot, slow cooker or on the stovetop, too!

It’s no secret I’m a major taco fan and these cilantro lime chicken tacos are a regular part of my rotation, mostly because of how easy they are to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super flavourful: The delicious cilantro lime flavours put a fun spin on taco night!
• Different methods: Make it in the Instant Pot, the slow cooker or the stovetop.

Ingredients and substitutions

• Olive oil – or another neutral cooking oil like avocado oil.
• Chicken broth – vegetable broth would also work.
• Lime juice – fresh lime juice is best but bottled lime or lemon juice will work.
• Honey – use agave or maple syrup instead.
• Taco seasoning – make your own or use a store-bought version.
• Chicken breasts – chicken thighs would also work.
• Cilantro – parsley would be good, but the tacos will have a different flavour.
• Corn tortillas – flour tortillas or lettuce wraps would also be delicious.

Toppings

• Coleslaw mix – swap out for chopped cabbage instead.
• Cheddar cheese – feta, Oaxaca or Tex Mex cheese would all be yummy.
• Jalapenos – use pickled jalapenos for a milder option.
• Sour cream – swap out for Greek yogurt for a low-fat option.
• Avocado salsa – serve with fresh salsa or pico de gallo instead.

How to make shredded chicken tacos

Step 1: Cook the chicken.

Cook in the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Prep your toppings.

Make the avocado salsa and chop up any toppings.

Step 3: Shred the chicken.

Do a natural release of the pressure, then shred the chicken.

Step 4: Assemble your tacos.

Add the chicken and toppings to corn tortillas and serve.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

You can use frozen chicken if you’re making it in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop, but not in the crockpot. It’s not safe to cook frozen chicken in the crockpot.

What type of chicken is best for tacos?

A lean option like chicken breast works great but can dry out, so adding salsa or a bit of broth helps keep it juicy and flavourful!

How can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?

To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

What to serve with these chicken tacos

Here are some of my favourite ways to serve these tacos:

• With chips and guac or salsa for dipping
• With Mexican street corn (either on the side or on top)
• With a side of refried beans

Storing and reheating

Storing: Store the chicken and toppings separately in the fridge for 5 days.

Freezing: Freeze the chicken for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating: Sprinkle some water over top then microwave for 1-2 mins. Use it to make fresh tacos, burrito bowls, enchiladas and more!

Meal prep tools

• The Instant Pot DUO is the version I use in this recipe.
• Get your glass meal prep bowls here for packing up your leftovers.
• And of course I get all my free-range chicken breasts from Butcher Box!