Ultimate Fall Feast: Slow Cooker Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tacos with Smoky Chipotle Crema
Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with these irresistible Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tacos. Infused with a unique savory pumpkin spice blend, the chicken slow cooks to perfection, filling your home with comforting aromas. Paired with a zesty chipotle crema and a medley of fresh, crunchy toppings, these tacos are a delightful and unexpected twist on a beloved classic, perfect for any fall gathering or a cozy weeknight meal. Get ready to experience your new favorite seasonal dish!
The Allure of Savory Pumpkin Spice: A Culinary Revelation
I understand, the idea of “pumpkin spice” often conjures images of sweet lattes, pies, and autumnal desserts. And believe me, I’m just as excited about those seasonal treats as anyone! For the past month, my kitchen has been a hub of freelance projects, all centered around delicious sweet pumpkin recipes. But amidst all that sugary goodness, a different craving began to emerge: a desire to explore the savory side of pumpkin spice.
My journey into savory pumpkin spice isn’t entirely new. Just a few weeks ago, I ventured into uncharted territory with pumpkin spice ribs, and the results were nothing short of **mind-blowing**. The unexpected fusion of warm, earthy spices with succulent, smoky pork was a revelation. It proved that pumpkin spice, when given the right platform, can elevate savory dishes to extraordinary heights.
While those ribs were phenomenal, they required a fair amount of attention on the grill, making them more of a weekend project than a practical weeknight dinner. For those of us juggling day jobs, a “set-it-and-forget-it” meal is often the holy grail. This led me to brainstorm how I could translate that incredible savory pumpkin spice experience into something more accessible, something that could be effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot.
Effortless Cooking: Slow Cooker & Instant Pot Magic
The beauty of this pumpkin spice chicken taco recipe lies in its sheer simplicity and versatility. Whether you prefer the gentle simmer of a slow cooker or the speed of an Instant Pot, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of fall spices, knowing that your dinner is already tenderly cooking itself.
This savory pumpkin spice chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect foundation for the best fall chicken tacos you can possibly imagine. The unique spice blend melds beautifully with the smoky notes of the chipotle crema, creating an exquisite flavor explosion. When combined with the creamy richness of avocado, the hearty texture of black beans, and the satisfying crunch of toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), it truly becomes a meal that satisfies every craving.
Beyond the Tortilla: Versatile Leftovers & Meal Prep Ideas
While these pumpkin spice chicken tacos are incredibly addictive (I’ve been known to inhale three in mere minutes!), you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers. The beauty of this flavorful shredded chicken is its incredible versatility, allowing you to create entirely new meals.
Consider transforming the chicken into an open-faced sandwich, piled high on toasted bread with a generous layer of cheddar cheese and perhaps a drizzle of the chipotle crema. The warm, spiced chicken and melty cheese are a match made in heaven. Alternatively, use the chicken as a filling for enchiladas; its robust flavor profile pairs exceptionally well with other Latin-inspired ingredients. Don’t be afraid to add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick of spicy heat, which beautifully complements the subtle warmth of the pumpkin spice blend.
This chicken also works wonderfully in salads, grain bowls, or even quesadillas. Its tender texture and rich flavor make it a fantastic component for meal prepping, ensuring you have delicious, ready-to-use protein throughout the week. Just store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Speaking of delicious fall treats, don’t miss out on another unique pumpkin spice experience: this fall-themed boozy affogato! It’s a sweet ending to any autumn meal. Happy fall eating, my lovelies!
Essential Kitchen Companions for the Perfect Taco Night
Elevating your cooking experience often comes down to having the right tools. For these pumpkin spice chicken tacos, a few essential kitchen gadgets can make all the difference, especially when it comes to presentation and convenience.
First up, for that perfectly professional drizzle of chipotle crema, I highly recommend a large clear squeeze bottle. Not only does it allow for beautiful, even application, but it also doubles as a convenient storage solution for any leftover crema in the refrigerator. No more messy spoons or uneven dollops!
The star appliance for this recipe, whether you’re a slow cooking enthusiast or a pressure cooking pro, is the Instant Pot Ultra. This incredible gadget truly lives up to its “multi-purpose appliance EVER” reputation. It functions as a slow cooker, a pressure cooker, a rice cooker, yogurt maker, and much more. I personally use mine at least five times a week, which is the true testament to a worthwhile purchase. The initial investment pays off tenfold with its versatility and time-saving capabilities, and that’s coming from someone who’s enjoyed it for years!
Finally, if you plan on toasting your own pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for that delightful crunch, or even just warming up your tortillas, a reliable countertop convection oven is invaluable. I find myself reaching for mine daily, whether it’s for toasting nuts to perfection, broiling a quick cheesy turkey sandwich for lunch, or simply reheating leftovers. It’s incredibly handy, especially if you don’t have the luxury of a double oven, and it quickly becomes an indispensable tool that earns its dedicated spot on your counter.
Pumpkin Spice Chicken Tacos
ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
- 12 oz beer I used an IPA
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 paprika
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 chipotle in adobo with 2 tsp adobo sauce
- 1 avocado peeled, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup canned black beans drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup toasted pepitas
- 12 flour taco tortillas
instructions
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Combine chicken, beer, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, pepper, salt, and pumpkin spice in a slow cooker or in an Instant Pot.
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For the slow cooker, cook on high for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreddable.
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For the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, then allow for a natural release of pressure until the float valve drops.
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While the chicken cooks, prepare the chipotle crema: add sour cream, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or small bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the liquid to a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The chicken will be incredibly tender.
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Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for approximately 15 to 20 seconds, or until pliable and warm. To assemble the tacos, spoon a generous amount of pumpkin spice chicken into each tortilla. Top with slices of fresh avocado, a handful of drained and rinsed black beans, a drizzle of the smoky chipotle crema, and a sprinkle of toasted pepitas for crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious fall-inspired creation!