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Homemade Cafe Rio Chicken Tacos photo

Cafe Rio Chicken Tacos

These Cafe Rio Chicken Tacos are bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken, zesty spices, and customizable toppings make them a hit for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tacos:
  • 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Zesty Italian salad dressing
  • 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 Tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Equipment

  • Slow cooker or Instant Pot
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs
  • Taco Shells or Tortillas

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken - Place the 2.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breast halves in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. This will be the base of your tacos, so make sure they are evenly spread out.
  2. Step 2: Add the Liquid Ingredients - Pour in 3/4 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of Zesty Italian salad dressing over the chicken. This mixture will keep the chicken moist and packed with flavor.
  3. Step 3: Season the Chicken - Sprinkle the chicken with 1 Tbsp of fresh lime juice, 1 Tbsp of chili powder, 2 tsp of onion powder, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of paprika, 1 tsp of cumin, 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of freshly ground black pepper, and if you like it spicy, add 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper. Using a spoon, gently mix the spices with the liquid to coat the chicken well.
  4. Step 4: Cook the Chicken - If using a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Shred the Chicken - Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, use tongs to remove it from the pot, placing it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks or your hands, then return it to the pot to soak up the remaining juices.
  6. Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos - Warm your taco shells or tortillas. Fill each shell generously with shredded chicken, then top with your favorite garnishes, such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, avocado, or salsa.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add jalapeños as toppings.
  • This dish is perfect for meal prep; make a large batch and enjoy throughout the week.
  • Shredded chicken freezes well; store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.