Shredded Chicken Tacos

Shredded Chicken Tacos are a bold and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish made with tender, spiced pulled chicken served in warm tortillas and topped with fresh garnishes like avocado, red onion, cheese, and cilantro. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or Taco Tuesday.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tacos are quick, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. The shredded chicken can be made ahead, and you can build each taco with your favorite toppings. Whether you enjoy them mild or spicy, these tacos are always a hit with both kids and adults. They also pair beautifully with rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• olive oil

• onion, finely chopped

• garlic, minced

• tomato paste or crushed tomatoes

• chicken broth or water

• chili powder

• cumin

• paprika

• oregano

• salt and pepper

For assembling tacos:

• corn or flour tortillas

• diced red onion

• avocado, diced

• cilantro, chopped

• queso fresco or crumbled feta

• lime wedges

Directions

1. Cook the chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add tomato paste, spices, and chicken. Stir to coat.

2. Simmer and shred:
   Add broth or water. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove from pan, shred with forks, then return to the sauce.

3. Warm the tortillas:
   Toast tortillas on a dry skillet or over open flame until warm and slightly charred.

4. Assemble the tacos:
   Add shredded chicken to tortillas. Top with avocado, onion, cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

5. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 20 minutes

• Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.

• Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle for heat.

• Top with sour cream or crema for a cooling touch.

• Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.

• Use a slow cooker for hands-off preparation.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water.

• Freezing: Freeze shredded chicken (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make the chicken in advance?

Yes, the shredded chicken can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and reheated when needed.

2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Just shred it and heat it in the sauce to absorb the flavors.

3. What type of tortilla is best?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work just as well.

4. Can I make this spicy?

Yes. Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the chicken.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free corn tortillas and check your spice labels.

6. What toppings go best?

Avocado, onion, cilantro, queso fresco, lime juice, sour cream, or pickled jalapeños.

7. Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook seasoned chicken with sauce in the slow cooker on low for 6 hours, then shred.

8. How do I keep tortillas warm when serving a group?

Wrap them in foil and keep them in a warm oven or a tortilla warmer.

9. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes. Thighs are juicier and add more flavor.

10. What sides go well with these tacos?

Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, or a fresh tomato salsa.

Conclusion

Shredded Chicken Tacos are a versatile and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With juicy seasoned chicken and fresh toppings wrapped in warm tortillas, they offer a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize them to your taste and enjoy a delicious bite every time.

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