Give me 20 minutes and a pan, and I’ll give you a plate of tacos that tastes like a fiesta in your mouth.
– Said someone.
Anyone can though!
Chicken tacos aren’t just another dinner option, they’re a go-to solution when you need something fast, flavorful, and downright satisfying.
If you’re always wondering what to make with chicken breast, the answer is Chicken Tacos.
Or if you’re on the hunt for quick chicken recipes that don’t feel like a compromise: Chicken Tacos Again!
The star of the show? A homemade taco seasoning.
This seasoning brings a bold, smoky, slightly spicy flavor without any of the additives you’ll find in a store-bought packet. Making your own taco seasoning might sound fancy, but trust us, it’s easier than you think. Once you try this DIY taco seasoning, you’ll become a true fan.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through every step of Taco cooking. From how to make taco seasoning to cooking up tender chicken and loading up your tortillas, everything!
So grab your skillet pan, get ready for some flavor, and let’s make taco night the best night of this week.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tacos Recipe
There are plenty of reasons this chicken tacos recipe will become your new favorite weeknight dinner:
Quick and easy to prepare:
Perfect for busy nights. When you need something fast but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Made with pantry staples:
Most of the ingredients are probably present in your kitchen.
Healthier than takeout:
Control the ingredients and skip the unnecessary additives.
Family-friendly and customizable:
Let everyone build their own taco with toppings they love.
With this recipe, you’re not only making dinner easier, but also bringing big, bold flavors to the table. That too with minimal effort. It’s one of those quick chicken recipes that never fails.
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Homemade Taco Seasoning – Better Than the Store-Bought Stuff
One of the best parts of this chicken tacos recipe is the homemade taco seasoning. It’s easy to make, healthier than the market pack, and you can adjust the spice level as per your taste.
Why Make Your Own Taco Seasoning? Making your own seasoning can help you skip the preservatives, added sugars, and fillers like silicon dioxide. You get full control over the ingredients and the flavor. Plus, it takes just a minute to mix together.
Check this: Healthy Oven-Baked Boneless Chicken Thigh Recipes
Homemade Taco Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- A pinch of black pepper
How to Make Taco Seasoning:
Just mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl or jar. Store it in an airtight container and keep it on hand for your next taco night. Moreover, you can use it to season soups, stews, or roasted veggies.
Pro Tip: Keep the taco seasoning in hot oil for about 30 seconds before adding it to the chicken. This step enhances the flavor and gives your dish an irresistible taco shop type aroma.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Tacos
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this chicken tacos recipe to life:
For the Chicken:
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tbsp homemade taco seasoning
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Taco Essentials:
- 8 corn tortillas (or swap with flour tortillas if you prefer)
- Optional: chicken broth and tomato paste to create a richer, saucier taco filling
Toppings (Get creative!):
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Thinly sliced red onion or pickled onion
- Diced fresh tomatoes or pico de gallo
- Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- Diced avocado or a dollop of guacamole
- Fresh chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Taco toppings are where you can let your creativity shine. You can like it fresh and spicy or rich and cheesy; you can mold your tacos as you like.
How to Make Chicken Tacos
This chicken tacos recipe is very easy. No marinating, no fancy steps; just bold flavor and a fast cooking process.
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken.
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the pan and cook until golden brown and nearly cooked through. For about 6–8 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Seasoning.
Sprinkle the homemade taco seasoning over the chicken. Add a bit of oil or water to help coat the chicken and distribute the spices evenly. Stir and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in flavor.
Optional Sauce Step: What if you want your chicken tacos a little saucier? Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste and a bit of chicken broth. Let it boil gently for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. Keep stirring until thickened.
Step 3: Warm Your Tortillas.
For best results, toast corn tortillas over an open flame for a few seconds, on each side, until it’s slightly flexible. If using an electric burner, warm them in a hot pan instead.
Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos
Place the chicken on your tortillas, add toppings, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime.
Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Quick Chicken Recipes Just Got Better
No doubt, this recipe is a dinner-time hero; but it can also help you with the next whole week of great meals.
Got leftover chicken? Lucky you!
Here’s what to make with chicken breast leftovers:
Taco Salad:
Top up some chopped lettuce with your leftover chicken. Add corn, black beans, avocado, and a drizzle of dressing. Mix well and enjoy!
Taco Soup Recipe:
Combine the chicken with beans, diced tomatoes, broth, corn, and more taco seasoning. Let it boil slightly into a comforting soup.
Quesadillas:
Sandwich the chicken and some cheese between tortillas. Toast them until they get crispy. Enjoy!
Tacos eftovers become new meals with almost zero effort. This is the kind of smart cooking that makes your weeknights easier.
Helpful Tips for the Best Chicken Tacos Ever
Want to make this chicken tacos recipe even better? Here are a few tips:
- Make a bulk batch of seasoning: Multiply the spice mix recipe and store in a jar. It keeps for months and is super handy.
- Chicken thighs = juicier tacos: If you like your tacos extra tender, try boneless skinless chicken thighs.
- Add veggies: Sauté onions, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Double the recipe for meal prep: This chicken is great for meal prepping. Store cooked chicken in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Meal Prep & Storage
If you like having ready-to-go meals, this chicken tacos recipe is perfect. Prep once and eat throughout the week.
Storage Tips:
- Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- Keep tortillas and toppings separate for best results.
- Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
This recipe also freezes well! Let the chicken cool, then store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Store in the freezer until you’re ready to eat.
When you’re ready, defrost it overnight in the fridge. Reheat and enjoy an almost instant meal!
What to Serve With Chicken Tacos
Get your perfect meal ready with one or two easy side dishes with tacos:
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Toasted corn coated in mayo, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder.
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful, tomato-infused rice dish that pairs perfectly with tacos.
- Refried Beans: Smooth, savory, and full of comfort.
- Chips and Salsa or Guacamole: Because you can never have too many dips!
These sides are simple and easy to prepare. And they complement the tacos beautifully.
The Bottom Line…
Chicken tacos are a dinner dream!
They’re easy to make, totally delicious, and thoroughly customizable. With your own homemade taco seasoning, you get all the flavor without the junk. Moreover, you get one step closer to mastering the art of easy chicken recipes for dinner.
So the next time you’re standing in front of your fridge wondering what to make with chicken breast, think tacos.
Fast, flavorful, and fun. This chicken tacos recipe delivers the best taste every time. Don’t forget the lime and maybe a margarita to seal the deal!
