Slow Cooker Smoky Chipotle Chicken

Introduction

Slow Cooker Smoky Chipotle Chicken is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while doing almost all the work for you.
It’s smoky, slightly spicy, and deeply savory—perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or casual family dinners.
Just set it, forget it, and let the slow cooker work its magic.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
• 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for serving

Instructions

1. Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil.
2. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Arrange the chicken on top of the onion layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
5. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
7. For shredded chicken, remove the chicken and shred with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce.
8. Optional: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken before serving.

Description

This dish delivers rich, smoky heat with a tender, juicy texture that melts in your mouth.
The chipotle peppers bring depth rather than overpowering spice, while slow cooking allows the chicken to soak up every layer of flavor.
It’s versatile enough to serve in tacos, over rice, or alongside roasted vegetables.

Tips

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
• If you prefer mild heat, start with just one chipotle pepper and add more later.
• For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• This recipe freezes well—perfect for make-ahead meals.

Correction (Fixes & Adjustments)

• Too spicy? Stir in a little sour cream or plain yogurt before serving.
• Too smoky? Add a splash of tomato sauce or extra broth to balance the flavor.
• Watery sauce? Shred the chicken and cook uncovered on HIGH for 20–30 minutes.

Enjoy

Serve this Slow Cooker Smoky Chipotle Chicken in tacos, burrito bowls, wraps, or simply over steamed rice.
Add your favorite toppings and enjoy a comforting, bold meal with minimal effort—every bite is worth the wait!