Mexican-Inspired
Chicken Tacos
This is a straightforward, reliable taco night recipe: chicken breast simmered in a smoky-spiced sauce until it shreds effortlessly, ready to pile into warm tortillas with whatever toppings your household likes best.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Simple stovetop method, no special equipment
- Homemade seasoning tastes fresher than packets
- Ready in about 25 minutes
- Great for taco night with build-your-own toppings
Ingredients
Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano and salt, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce.
- Simmer uncovered for a few minutes if the sauce needs to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Tips for success
- Shredding the chicken directly back into the sauce lets it soak up as much flavor as possible.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds per side for the best texture.
- Leftover shredded chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well too.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy future taco night.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a store-bought taco seasoning instead?
Yes, substitute a 1 oz packet or about 2 tablespoons of your preferred taco seasoning for the individual spices.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine everything except the tortillas and toppings, cook on low for 5-6 hours, then shred and serve.
What toppings go well on chicken tacos?
Shredded cheese, diced onion, cilantro, salsa, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime are all classic choices.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and shred just as easily, staying extra juicy.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 312 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 620mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
You might also like
Mexican-InspiredChicken Fajita Bowls
Chicken fajita bowls take all the flavor of sizzling restaurant fajitas — smoky-spiced chicken, …
Mexican-InspiredChicken Quesadillas
A hot, dry skillet is the key to genuinely crispy quesadillas — it toasts the tortilla while mel…
Mexican-InspiredChicken Enchiladas
These chicken enchiladas roll tender shredded chicken and melty cheese into softened corn tortil…