Chicken Tacos Recipe (Easy & Delicious!)
Craving some seriously good chicken tacos? Forget takeout—this homemade chicken taco recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night spread, this recipe will be your new go-to!
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Tacos
- Super Flavorful – Juicy, well-seasoned chicken with the perfect blend of spices.
- Easy to Make – Just a few simple steps, and you’re ready to eat.
- Customizable – Load ‘em up with your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy tacos all week!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional for extra moisture)
For the Tacos:
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour—your choice!)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Hot sauce (optional but recommended!)
How to Make Homemade Chicken Tacos
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer if you have time—overnight is even better!).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). If the chicken starts drying out, add a splash of chicken broth for extra moisture.
Step 3: Shred or Slice
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a couple of minutes before shredding it with two forks or slicing it into strips.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Warm up your tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. You can also wrap them in foil and pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Load up your tortillas with the juicy chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, avocado slices, cilantro, and a drizzle of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Add hot sauce if you like a little kick!
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Tacos
- Want crispy tacos? Lightly fry the tortillas in a bit of oil before filling them.
- Make it spicy! Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the chicken marinade.
- Need a shortcut? Use rotisserie chicken and toss it with the seasoning blend.
- More toppings? Try pickled onions, crumbled queso fresco, or a squeeze of extra lime juice.