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Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos

Close-up of three flavorful chicken tacos filled with shredded chicken, topped with cilantro and cheese.

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A simple and flavorful chicken taco recipe perfect for a weeknight family dinner. This recipe uses lean chicken breast and a blend of spices to create juicy, shredded filling that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until spices are fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from the skillet and place on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
  8. Warm tortillas according to package directions.
  9. Fill warm tortillas with shredded chicken mixture.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice to the shredded chicken mixture before serving.
  • If you prefer grilled chicken tacos, grill seasoned chicken breasts until cooked through, then dice or shred. Sauté onions and garlic, add spices, and then toss with the grilled chicken.
  • This shredded chicken filling is also great for burritos, quesadillas, or salads.

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