Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20–30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.

• Flavorful: A blend of spices creates a deliciously seasoned chicken filling.

• Customizable: Tailor toppings to your preference, from fresh veggies to creamy sauces.

• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas

• 1 cup pico de gallo or your favorite salsa

• 1 avocado, sliced

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• Lime wedges, for serving

directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

   • Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or chopping into bite-sized pieces.

3. Warm the Tortillas:

   • While the chicken is resting, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until pliable.

4. Assemble the Tacos:

   • Place the sliced chicken onto each tortilla.

   • Top with pico de gallo or salsa, avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the tacos immediately with additional lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken or toppings for extra heat.

• Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack over the chicken before serving.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a plant-based alternative.

• Grilled Flavor: Grill the marinated chicken on an outdoor grill for a smoky taste.

• Crunchy Texture: Add shredded lettuce or cabbage for added crunch and freshness.

storage/reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave before assembling the tacos.

• Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. They may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make the chicken spicier?

Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the spice mix.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What toppings can I use?

Customize with toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or hot sauce.

Can I use store-bought salsa?

Absolutely, store-bought salsa works perfectly for convenience.

How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

Warm the tortillas just before serving and avoid overfilling them with wet toppings.

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all seasonings and toppings are gluten-free.

How do I store leftover tacos?

Store the chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Can I use a slow cooker for the chicken?

Yes, cook the seasoned chicken on low for 6–7 hours, shred it, and assemble the tacos as usual.

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Yes, prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time and assemble the tacos when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Weeknight Chicken Tacos are a versatile and delicious meal that can be customized to suit any palate. With their quick preparation and flavorful ingredients, they’re perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of these tacos with your favorite toppings and sides.