Easy Weeknight Chicken Tacos

Craving a fiesta of flavors but short on time? Look no further than these mouthwatering chicken tacos! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe brings the vibrant taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled in warm tortillas and topped with your favorite garnishes, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe at a Glance

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4 (2 tacos per serving)
  • Difficulty: Easy

Key ingredients: boneless chicken breast, corn tortillas, and a blend of aromatic spices that will transport your taste buds south of the border!

Ingredients

For the Tacos:

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 corn tortillas

For the Toppings (choose your favorites):

  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced avocado or guacamole
  • Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chicken strips to the skillet and sprinkle with the spice mixture. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  4. While the chicken cooks, warm the tortillas according to package instructions or in a dry skillet.
  5. To assemble, place a portion of the cooked chicken in each tortilla and add your desired toppings.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

  • Tortilla Tip: For an authentic touch, char your corn tortillas slightly over an open flame or in a dry skillet. This enhances their flavor and makes them more pliable.
  • Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level by adding cayenne pepper to the spice mix or serving with hot sauce on the side.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Cook the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently when ready to serve for an even quicker meal.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (2 tacos with chicken, without additional toppings):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and additional toppings.

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