Elaine GordonNothing says summer like a backyard gathering, complete with laughter, good company, and the enticing smell of tacos grilling on the barbecue. A chilled drink in one hand and a plate loaded with these authentic Mexican chicken tacos in the other—it doesn’t get any better than that!
Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or enjoying a chill night in, I promise these tacos will be a hit. You can serve them alongside fresh corn tortillas, a side of homemade guacamole, and some zesty salsa to really elevate the experience.
Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, vibrant and full of flavor. Among the many variations, the authentic Mexican chicken taco stands out for its tender meat, aromatic spices, and freshness from all the toppings. The best part?
They’re incredibly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight or for a weekend party!
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What is Authentic Mexican Chicken Taco Recipe?
At its core, an authentic Mexican chicken taco celebrates simple ingredients that pack a punch. We’re using fairly basic components, like chicken, onions, and spices, but it’s how they come together that creates a culinary treat. This recipe features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of spices and lime juice, lightly seared, then simmered in a savory broth. You can serve them in soft tortillas, topped with fresh veggies and your favorite sauces for a delightful meal.
How Does It Taste Like?
The flavor experience is like a vacation for your taste buds. The chicken is savory, with hints of earthy spices from cumin and paprika, complemented by the sharpness of lime juice. Adding fresh veggies on top provides crunch and a burst of freshness. You’ll find the right balance of flavor that speaks to the heart of traditional Mexican cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to adore this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and customizable to fit your tastes. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create delicious tacos that are both satisfying and perfect for gatherings. Plus, kneading out time to prep means you can make these succulent chicken tacos any night of the week.
The Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering tacos, here’s what you’ll need (with a couple of fun surprises to enhance the flavors):
– 700 g (1.2 lb) skinless boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
– 1.5 tbsp high-quality olive oil
– 2 tbsp tomato purée
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth, divided
– HOMEMADE TACO SEASONING:
– 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
– 2 tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 3 tsp each of ground cumin and sweet paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice level, or omit)
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– To serve:
– Warm taco shells or tortillas
– Chopped tomatoes and onions
– Sliced avocado
– Fresh cilantro
– Shredded lettuce
– Grated cheese
– A dollop of sour cream
– Optional: Fresh jalapeño slices for a spicy kick!
Ingredients From : recipetineats.com
How to Make Authentic Mexican Chicken Taco Recipe?
Making these authentic chicken tacos is simple and straightforward. Let’s go through the steps so you can enjoy a delicious meal without any fuss!
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Taco Seasoning
In a medium bowl, gather your homemade taco seasoning ingredients. Mix together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, garlic and onion powders, oregano, cumin, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of chicken broth to create a smooth and loose marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with the taco seasoning. Turn the pieces to evenly coat them with the marinade. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is glistening, carefully add the marinated chicken. Sear for about 3 minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely browned. Reserve any leftover marinade in the bowl for later!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to a shallow dish. Pour the remaining chicken broth into the skillet, followed by the tomato purée and sugar. Scrape any leftover marinade bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious flavors. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
While the sauce simmers, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the shallow dish. Don’t worry if some parts appear a bit undercooked; they will finish cooking in the sauce shortly.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the shredded chicken to the simmering sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat every piece, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce should reduce to a thin syrup-like consistency. Give it a taste and adjust salt if necessary.
Step 7: Serve the Tacos
Transfer the chicken and sauce into a serving bowl. Warm your taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions. Stuff the shells generously with the chicken mixture, and top with fresh diced tomatoes, avocado, onions, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips on Making Authentic Mexican Chicken Taco Recipe
– Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances the flavor. Opt for free-range chicken if possible.
– Marination Time: If you have time, marinate the chicken for longer. Even a couple of hours in the fridge can make a difference.
– Topping Variety: Get creative with toppings! Pickled onions, jalapeños, or fresh corn can add different tastes and textures.
– Make it Spicy: Don’t be shy about adjusting the cayenne or adding some fresh diced jalapeños into the mix for an extra kick.
– Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 3-4 days.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will keep for up to four days. You can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Serving Suggestions
– Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for an extra crunch.
– Fresh Guacamole: A scoop of guacamole perfectly complements the flavors of the tacos.
– Mexican Rice: Serve alongside traditional Mexican rice for a more filling meal.
– Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn with a sprinkle of cheese and lime makes a great side dish.
– Chilled Beverages: Pair with sparkling water or a light beer to beat the summer heat!
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Authentic Mexican Chicken Taco Recipe?
– Chicken Breasts: You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
– Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for seasoned lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based taco.
– Fish: Fish tacos are another delightful alternative! Use lightly seasoned white fish like tilapia or cod.
– Turkey: Ground turkey or shredded turkey also creates a lean yet flavorful taco.
– Crab or Shrimp: For a unique twist, use crab or shrimp to enjoy a seafood version of this dish.
Authentic Mexican Chicken Taco Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- serving platter
Ingredients
- To create these mouthwatering tacos here’s what you’ll need (with a couple of fun surprises to enhance the flavors):
- – 700 g 1.2 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- – 1.5 tbsp high-quality olive oil
- – 2 tbsp tomato purée
- – 1 tsp sugar
- – 1 cup 250ml chicken broth, divided
– HOMEMADE TACO SEASONING:
- – 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- – 1 tbsp olive oil
- – 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped
- – 2 tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder
- – 2 tsp dried oregano
- – 3 tsp each of ground cumin and sweet paprika
- – 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to your spice level, or omit
- – 1 tsp sea salt
- – 1/2 tsp black pepper
– To serve:
- – Warm taco shells or tortillas
- – Chopped tomatoes and onions
- – Sliced avocado
- – Fresh cilantro
- – Shredded lettuce
- – Grated cheese
- – A dollop of sour cream
– Optional: Fresh jalapeño slices for a spicy kick!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Taco Seasoning
- In a medium bowl, gather your homemade taco seasoning ingredients. Mix together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, garlic and onion powders, oregano, cumin, sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add 2 tablespoons of chicken broth to create a smooth and loose marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with the taco seasoning. Turn the pieces to evenly coat them with the marinade. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the chicken absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is glistening, carefully add the marinated chicken. Sear for about 3 minutes on each side until the chicken is nicely browned. Reserve any leftover marinade in the bowl for later!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Once the chicken is seared, transfer it to a shallow dish. Pour the remaining chicken broth into the skillet, followed by the tomato purée and sugar. Scrape any leftover marinade bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious flavors. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- While the sauce simmers, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the shallow dish. Don’t worry if some parts appear a bit undercooked; they will finish cooking in the sauce shortly.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Return the shredded chicken to the simmering sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat every piece, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce should reduce to a thin syrup-like consistency. Give it a taste and adjust salt if necessary.
Step 7: Serve the Tacos
- Transfer the chicken and sauce into a serving bowl. Warm your taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions. Stuff the shells generously with the chicken mixture, and top with fresh diced tomatoes, avocado, onions, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes, feel free to use store-bought taco seasoning if you’re pressed for time. Just adjust the salt accordingly, as some blends can be quite salty.
2. What’s the best way to warm tortillas?
You can warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce, then store them separately until you’re ready to assemble your tacos. Just reheat before serving.
4. What is the best way to serve these tacos at a party?
Set up a taco bar! Have all the toppings laid out, so guests can build their own unique tacos. It allows for a fun and interactive dining experience.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to three months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Conclusion
These authentic Mexican chicken tacos are bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. They offer incredible flavor, are easy to prepare, and can be customized for any gathering or family dinner.
So, when you’re ready to spice things up in the kitchen, gather those ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You’ll soon be savoring flavorful tacos that will impress the whole table. Enjoy!
