Description
This Crockpot Chili Lime Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful shredded chicken infused with zesty lime and a blend of smoky chili spices. Perfect for a hands-off meal, this easy slow cooker recipe is ideal for tacos, burrito bowls, salads, or served over rice. The chicken is juicy and slightly spicy with a fresh cilantro garnish and lime wedges adding brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Juice of 2 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
To Serve
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, until fully combined and aromatic.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly in the crockpot. Pour the marinade over the chicken making sure each piece is well coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred and mix: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken well to incorporate it evenly with the flavorful juices in the pot.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the shredded chicken if using, and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Great for tacos, burrito bowls, salads, or over rice.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months, making this a great meal prep option.
- Serve served over rice, in tacos, burrito bowls, or salads for versatile meal ideas.
