Name: Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup salsa; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional); Lime wedges for serving

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These flavorful chicken tacos are a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Tender, seasoned chicken pieces are sautéed and paired with vibrant bell peppers and fresh herbs, all tucked into warm tortillas. Served with lime wedges and your favorite toppings, they deliver bold flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken tacos are a go-to option for their ease, versatility, and universally loved taste. Whether you’re making a fast dinner for the family or hosting taco night, this recipe comes together with minimal effort yet packs a punch of flavor. You can customize the toppings to suit any preference, making it an ideal choice for both picky eaters and adventurous palates.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper
Bell peppers (yellow and red), diced
Onion, diced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Flour or corn tortillas
Fresh lime wedges for serving
Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese

Directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add diced chicken and cook until lightly browned.
Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add bell peppers and onion. Sauté until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
Fill each tortilla with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Serve with your choice of toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Grilled Option: Grill the chicken instead of sautéing for a smoky flavor.
Taco Bowls: Serve the chicken mixture over rice or quinoa for a low-carb version.
Vegetarian Substitute: Use tofu or sautéed mushrooms in place of chicken.
Cheesy Tacos: Add shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken mixture in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warm the tortillas before using. This makes them more flexible and less likely to tear when filled.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Simply warm it with the seasoning and vegetables.

Are chicken thighs better than breasts for tacos?

Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts are leaner. Both work well for this recipe.

What type of tortillas should I use?

You can use either flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference. Flour tortillas are softer, while corn tortillas have more texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken mixture can be made in advance and reheated before serving.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

Use corn tortillas and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.

What are the best toppings for chicken tacos?

Popular toppings include avocado, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese, and pickled onions.

How do I make the chicken more flavorful?

Let the chicken marinate in the seasonings for 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.

Can I add beans or rice to the filling?

Yes, black beans or Spanish rice make great additions for added texture and protein.

What side dishes go well with chicken tacos?

Consider serving with Mexican rice, refried beans, street corn, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

These chicken tacos are the perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re a dependable crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Keep this recipe on hand for taco Tuesdays, meal preps, or casual dinners—you’ll come back to it time and time again.

Chicken Tacos

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Delicious and easy-to-make chicken tacos packed with flavor and perfect for a quick dinner or gathering.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated through and coated with spices.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
Fill each tortilla with seasoned chicken.
Top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.