Easy Chicken Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chicken Tacos are a quick and flavorful solution for busy weeknights. Juicy seasoned chicken, crisp toppings, and soft tortillas come together in a delicious and satisfying handheld meal. With minimal prep and customizable ingredients, these tacos are perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighsolive oillime juicechili powdercuminpaprikagarlic powderonion powdersalt and peppercorn or flour tortillasshredded lettucechopped tomatoesdiced onionssour creamshredded cheesefresh cilantro

directions

Cut the chicken into small strips or bite-sized pieces.

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.

Add the chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.

Assemble the tacos by placing cooked chicken in the tortillas and topping with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.

Serve immediately with lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 tacos.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 15-120 minutes (optional)
Cooking time: 8 minutes
Total time: 23-38 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for ground beef or shredded pork.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Add sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess.

Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce.

Try it with hard taco shells for added crunch.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Tortillas can be reheated in a dry pan or microwave.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great for an even quicker option.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely, grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that’s delicious in tacos.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

They can be if you use corn tortillas and check spice blends for hidden gluten.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great choices.

Can I make the marinade ahead?

Yes, you can prepare and store the marinade in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How do I prevent soggy tacos?

Assemble just before serving and use a slotted spoon to drain excess liquid from the chicken.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, just adjust the spices to make them milder if needed.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before using.

What toppings go best?

Classic choices include lettuce, tomato, cheese, onion, and sour cream, but feel free to get creative.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

It’s recommended for flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can cook it right away.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Tacos are a go-to meal that’s both tasty and versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or something to serve a crowd, these tacos deliver bold flavor with minimal effort. With countless ways to customize, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe lineup.

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