Best Easy Chicken Tacos Recipe – Dish Journal

Ah, tacos! The comfort food that has a unique charm, bridging generations and cultures around the dinner table. Picture this: a brisk Saturday afternoon, the sun shining, and the grill sizzling. You want something easy yet delectable.

 That’s when the idea of chicken tacos pops into your head, filled with fresh ingredients and bright flavors. To make it even better, you might want to know what to pair with them.

Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about what you can serve alongside. Here are some delightful options that complement chicken tacos beautifully:

Mexican Rice, Black Beans, Guacamole etc.

With those options in mind, let’s jump into the magic of crafting the best easy chicken tacos, using a straightforward recipe that comes together in no time.

Cooking should feel less like a chore and more like a celebration. That’s precisely why I’m excited to share this easy chicken taco recipe with you. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a feast that invites conversation, laughter, and bonding over shared plates.

Having spent years experimenting with various recipes, I found a simple yet flavorful method that satisfies the taste buds. Trust me; these tacos are straightforward to make and packed with flavor! Let’s delve into why this recipe works so well.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Simple Ingredients

You don’t need a pantry full of exotic items. The ingredients are everyday staples you likely have at home. This accessibility makes whipping up these tacos a breeze.

2. Versatile Flavors

The spice blend is perfectly balanced, giving a hint of warmth without overwhelming your palate. Moreover, it allows for tweaking according to personal taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

3. Quick Preparation

You can have these tacos ready in under 30 minutes. They’re a life-saver for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive.

4. Family-friendly Appeal

Kids and adults alike love tacos. Their customizable nature makes it easy for everyone to pick and choose their toppings, ensuring each person gets a meal they enjoy.

How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a taco. The chicken is tender, juicy, and brilliantly spiced, marrying well with the crunchy toppings. 

Each element—be it the fresh pico de gallo or the creamy guacamole—contributes a delightful contrast to the warm tortillas. That’s what makes this recipe truly special.

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Best Easy Chicken Tacos Variations?

Many taco recipes call for slow cooking or marinating the chicken for several hours. In this recipe, you achieve the same depth of flavor without the long wait. 

The spices are applied directly to the chicken, delivering punchy flavor that’s accessible even on a time-crunch day. This version focuses on ease, flavor, and speed.

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish:

• 1 tablespoon ground chili powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (optional)
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas

Fresh Pico de Gallo:

• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped ripe tomato
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 finely chopped jalapeño (seeds removed)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
• Pinch of salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

To make the best easy chicken tacos, follow these clear steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, honey, cumin, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. If using, add the smoked paprika and garlic powder. This creates a seasoning paste that will flavor the chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the spice mixture adhere better. Rub the spice paste evenly over the chicken pieces. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. If using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook, as they can become dry. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for a few minutes.

Step 4: Make the Pico de Gallo

While the chicken rests, combine red onion, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste. The freshness goes hand in hand with the seasoned chicken.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

In the skillet (or microwave if you’re in a rush), warm the tortillas for a few minutes until they’re pliable. This will prevent them from cracking when you fold them.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Lay them on your tortilla and top with pico de gallo. Feel free to add other toppings like shredded cheese or a drizzle of sour cream if you wish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your chicken tacos are ready to enjoy! Serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zing.

Notes

Here are some handy tips to ensure your tacos turn out perfect:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs make a world of difference. Opt for freshly chopped cilantro instead of dried for pico de gallo.
  
• Don’t Rush the Chicken: Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
  
• Experiment with Toppings: Consider avocado slices, pickled onions, or even a splash of hot sauce for another layer of flavor.
  
• Try Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for variety. Each will offer a different but delicious taco experience.
  
• Make It Ahead: Marinate the chicken in advance for deeper flavors, even if just for 30 minutes before cooking.
  

How Do You Store These Best Easy Chicken Tacos?

Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about three days. Reheat before serving. It’s best to store tortillas and toppings separately to preserve their texture.

Sides For Best Easy Chicken Tacos

Here are three fantastic side dishes to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

This is a grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, chili powder, lime, and cotija cheese. It’s creamy, spicy, and pairs wonderfully with chicken tacos.

2. Cabbage Slaw

A crunchy, tangy cabbage slaw drizzled with lime can provide a refreshing contrast. It adds a crispy texture that complements the tacos perfectly.

3. Chips and Salsa

You can never go wrong with this classic pairing. Crunchy tortilla chips and a zesty salsa are the perfect appetizing duo before tackling the main event.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes, you just don’t have all the ingredients. Here are alternatives:

1. Chicken Instead of Turkey

If you lack chicken, ground turkey works. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

2. Tortilla Types

Can’t find corn or flour tortillas? Use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, or even pita bread will do in a pinch.

3. Honey for Maple Syrup

If you’re out of honey, maple syrup can add sweetness.

4. Fresh for Dried Herbs

In a hurry? If fresh cilantro isn’t available, you can use dried, but use less since it has a more concentrated flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Chicken tacos are more than just a meal; they carry a story with every bite. They invite creativity, collaboration, and plenty of flavor. You can make them quickly and unleash a fiesta of tastes in your kitchen. 

Next time you’re staring blankly at the dinner options, remember easy chicken tacos are just a few steps away. Fire up that grill—it’s time to turn your kitchen into a vibrant taco bar.

Enjoy!

You’ll also like these latest recipes!

• How to make Pf Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps
• Quick And Easy Chicken Caesar Salad With Croutons Copycat Recipe
• Best Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits