Description
Cheesy Chicken Tacos
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the tacos:
8 small corn or flour tortillas
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 onion, finely sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Lime wedges
Instructions:
Cook the chicken:
In a bowl, season the chicken thighs or breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden brown on the outside.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then slice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the tortillas:
Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or on a griddle for about 30 seconds on each side, until warmed through and slightly charred.
Assemble the tacos:
On each tortilla, layer the cooked chicken, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese, and sliced onions.
Optionally, return the tacos to the skillet for a minute to melt the cheese and warm everything through.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your cheesy, savory chicken tacos!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect Cheesy Chicken Tacos every time. First, pat your chicken dry to ensure a good sear. Combine all dry spices in a small bowl before mixing with the olive oil and chicken; this ensures even seasoning. When cooking the chicken, avoid moving it in the pan for the first few minutes to develop a flavorful crust. After resting and shredding the chicken, use the same warm skillet to heat your tortillas. This adds flavor and makes them pliable. For assembly, place a generous amount of chicken on one half of the tortilla, top with cheese and onions, then fold. Briefly heat the folded taco in the skillet for 30 seconds per side to melt the cheese and crisp the shell.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your taco night with complementary sides and toppings. Serve these cheesy chicken tacos with a fresh Pico de Gallo, creamy guacamole, or a cooling sour cream drizzle. For sides, consider Mexican street corn (elote), a simple black bean salad, or cilantro-lime rice. To balance the richness, offer pickled jalapeños or a quick cabbage slaw with lime juice. A light, crisp lager or a refreshing agua fresca pairs wonderfully.
How-to Summary
In brief: Season and cook chicken until golden. Rest, then shred. Warm tortillas in the same skillet. Assemble tacos with chicken, cheese, and onion. Briefly return to the skillet to melt cheese. Garnish with cilantro and lime before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken? Absolutely. Shred about 3 cups of cooked chicken. Warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth or water and the spice blend for 2-3 minutes to infuse flavor.
How can I make this spicier? Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the chicken seasoning. Top with sliced fresh jalapeños or a spicy salsa.
What’s the best cheese substitute for mozzarella? Oaxaca cheese is authentic and melts beautifully. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mild cheddar are also excellent choices.
How do I keep the tacos from getting soggy? Ensure your chicken filling is not too wet. Also, briefly crisping the assembled taco in the skillet helps create a barrier. Serve toppings like salsa on the side.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? Yes. Cook, shred, and store the seasoned chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before assembling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken, as this steams it instead of searing it. Do not skip resting the chicken before shredding, or you’ll lose its juicy moisture. Do not overheat the tortillas, or they will become brittle and crack when folded. Finally, do not overfill the tacos, making them difficult to eat and prone to falling apart.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken Tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining simple techniques with bold flavors. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can master a quick, delicious meal that feels special any night of the week. The versatility of the recipe allows for endless customization to suit your taste. Gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready for a truly satisfying taco experience.