Crockpot Cheddar Beer Chicken Tacos
These Crockpot Cheddar Beer Chicken Tacos are juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor! Made with beer, ranch seasoning, and spices, the chicken turns tender and perfect for tacos. Includes easy Instant Pot instructions too!
Equipment
- slow cooker for Crockpot method
- instant pot for pressure cooking option
- mixing bowl
- tongs or forks for shredding chicken
- measuring cups and spoons
- grater for cheddar cheese
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz beer
- 1 oz ranch seasoning packet
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
- Tortillas (corn or flour)
- Toppings: sour cream, cilantro, salsa, black beans, shredded lettuce, etc.
Instructions
- Crockpot Instructions: In a bowl, mix together beer, chili powder, cumin, ranch packet, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in the crockpot and pour in the beer mixture. Turn chicken to evenly coat. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Shred the chicken and return to the crockpot to soak in the juices for about 15 minutes. Turn crockpot to warm and add cheddar cheese. Gently stir until melted.
- Serve with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
- Instant Pot Instructions: In a bowl, mix together beer, chili powder, cumin, ranch packet, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in the Instant Pot and pour in the beer mixture. Turn chicken to coat.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and turn the vent to the closed position. Cook on high pressure for 14 minutes (small chicken breasts) or 16 minutes (large breasts).
- Manually release the pressure. Remove chicken, shred, and return to the pot to soak in broth. Gently stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
Notes
For best flavor, use freshly grated cheddar cheese and your favorite light or amber beer. Adjust spice level with extra chili powder or jalapeño. Serve with warm tortillas, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro. Instant Pot version cooks in under 20 minutes!