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Weeknight Chicken Tacos

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Weeknight Chicken Tacos are a quick and flavorful dinner option that brings the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine to your table in under 30 minutes. Tender chicken seasoned with aromatic spices is served in warm tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.

Ingredients

  1. 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

Instructions

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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with additional lime wedges on the side.

Notes

  1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken or toppings for extra heat.
  2. Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack over the chicken before serving.
  3. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a plant-based alternative.
  4. Grilled Flavor: Grill the marinated chicken on an outdoor grill for a smoky taste.
  5. Crunchy Texture: Add shredded lettuce or cabbage for added crunch and freshness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/weeknight-chicken-tacos/