Mouthwatering Shredded Chicken Tacos: A Step-By-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 8 small flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa

Steps and instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
  6. Add the chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet and cook for another minute.
  7. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring it to a simmer.
  8. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred.
  9. Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks.
  10. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
  11. Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are pliable.
  12. Fill each tortilla with some of the shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
  13. Top each taco with a dollop of sour cream and salsa before serving.

Tools for making

  • Skillet - A large skillet is needed to cook the chicken and sauté the onion and garlic.
  • Two forks - These will be used to shred the cooked chicken.
  • Large spoon - A large spoon is useful for stirring the chicken and sauce.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is needed to chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is required for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to accurately measure the salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
  • Measuring cup - A measuring cup is required to measure the chicken broth.
  • Tongs - Tongs are useful for flipping the chicken breasts while cooking.
  • Serving platter - A serving platter is needed to hold the assembled tacos.
  • Skillet or griddle - A skillet or griddle is used to warm the flour tortillas.
  • Small bowls - Small bowls can be used to serve the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and salsa.

Recipe variations

  • Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option.
  • Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the skillet with the onion and garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Replace the shredded lettuce with chopped spinach or kale for a healthier twist.
  • Try using pulled pork or beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.
  • Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies to the sauce for a spicier version.
  • Include some sliced avocado or guacamole as a topping for a creamy and fresh addition.
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice to the shredded chicken for a tangy citrus flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or queso fresco, for a unique taste.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Recipe overview

Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these mouthwatering Shredded Chicken Tacos! Tender and flavorful chicken, generously seasoned with chili, cumin, and paprika, gets cooked down in a savory broth until it's easily shreddable. The shredded chicken is then packed into warm, soft tortillas and topped with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, melty cheddar cheese, and fresh cilantro, before being finished off with a dollop of cool sour cream and tangy salsa. From the first bite to the last, these tacos are a symphony of textures and flavors that are sure to satisfy. Perfect for a weeknight meal, but special enough for a dinner party, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser that you'll find yourself making again and again.

Common questions

  1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless? No, boneless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe as they are easier to shred.
  2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? Yes, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just warm them up before filling with the shredded chicken.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of cheese you prefer or have on hand. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack would work well.
  4. Can I make the shredded chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can make the shredded chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before assembling the tacos.
  5. Can I freeze the shredded chicken? Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
  6. Can I add other toppings to the tacos? Absolutely! Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings like guacamole, sliced jalapenos, or diced onions.
  7. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cooked and seasoned black beans or tofu.
  8. Can I make these tacos spicy? Yes, if you prefer spicier tacos, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add some hot sauce or diced jalapenos to the shredded chicken.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - A large skillet is needed for cooking the chicken and sautéing the onions and garlic.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is useful for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  • Chef's knife - A chef's knife is necessary for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are required for precise measurement of the spices.
  • Two forks - Two forks are needed for shredding the cooked chicken.
  • Spatula - A spatula is useful for flipping the chicken breasts while cooking and stirring the sauce.
  • Large spoon - A large spoon is necessary for spooning the sauce over the shredded chicken.
  • Skillet or griddle - A skillet or griddle is needed for warming up the flour tortillas.
  • Serving platter - A serving platter or plate is useful for presenting and serving the shredded chicken tacos.

Origin stories

Tacos, such a beloved dish, trace their roots back to the indigenous peoples in the Valley of Mexico. These folks were crafting tacos filled with small fish before the European contact. Over time, the fillings evolved based on the region and available resources, with northern Mexico favoring beef, the coastal areas using fish and seafood, and the southern regions utilizing chicken and vegetables. Our shredded chicken taco recipe, thus, echoes the flavors and traditions birthed in the heart of Mexico. Each element, from the soft tortilla to the vibrant array of toppings, sings a history of cultural fusion and adaptation. Tacos, in essence, are not just a meal, but a testament to Mexico's rich culinary legacy, brought to life in your kitchen.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.