Description
Sizzling Mexican cuisine finds its perfect expression in these ultimate shredded chicken tacos, packed with zesty flavors and authentic spices. Tender chicken nestled in warm tortillas promises a delightful culinary journey you won’t want to miss.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
Taco Assembly:
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded lettuce
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro
Instructions
- Blend a medley of robust spices including salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to create a vibrant seasoning mix for the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth into a skillet over medium heat, then gently nestle the seasoned chicken into the liquid. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and allow a brief 5-minute resting period. Using two forks, pull and tear the meat into delicate, succulent shreds.
- Heat a dry skillet and quickly toast tortillas for approximately 30 seconds per side, creating a warm, slightly crisp foundation for the tacos.
- Construct each taco by layering the freshly shredded chicken onto the warm tortillas. Enhance with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Elevate the flavor profile by garnishing with bright lime wedges and fragrant cilantro. Serve immediately for maximum taste and texture enjoyment.
Notes
- Boost flavor by marinating chicken in seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance depth and richness.
- Control spice levels by adjusting chili powder and cumin quantities, making the recipe adaptable for mild or hot preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise chicken doneness, preventing dryness and guaranteeing food safety.
- Transform into a low-carb option by replacing tortillas with large lettuce leaves for a lighter, gluten-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg