Chicken Tacos with Avocado and Cotija Cheese

These Chicken Tacos are packed with bold, smoky flavors, tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, tangy cotija cheese, and a touch of lime. Wrapped in lightly charred corn tortillas, they’re the perfect blend of freshness and comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and satisfying: perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

• Combines bold spices, creamy toppings, and fresh herbs for a well-balanced bite.

• Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or tortillas.

• Family-friendly and great for crowd-pleasing taco nights.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs

• Olive oil

• Garlic

• Onion

• Taco seasoning (or blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano)

• Tomato paste or chipotle in adobo (optional, for deeper flavor)

• Chicken broth or water

• Corn tortillas

• Avocado

• Cotija cheese

• Fresh cilantro

• Red onion

• Lime wedges

Directions

1. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant.

2. Add the chicken and season with taco seasoning. Sear on both sides until lightly browned.

3. Add tomato paste or chipotle (if using), pour in chicken broth, and cover the pan. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and tender (about 15–20 minutes).

4. Shred the chicken using two forks and allow it to simmer uncovered until the liquid reduces.

5. Lightly toast tortillas in a dry pan or over open flame until soft and slightly charred.

6. Assemble the tacos: spoon chicken into tortillas and top with diced avocado, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro.

7. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people (makes about 8–10 tacos).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

• Add pickled red onions or jalapeños for a sharp contrast.

• Substitute cotija cheese with feta or shredded cheddar.

• Swap in flour tortillas if preferred.

• Add a drizzle of crema or sour cream for extra richness.

• Turn it into a taco bowl with rice and beans.

Storage / reheating

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

• Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

• Avoid storing assembled tacos; store components separately for best freshness.

• Tortillas can be wrapped in foil and reheated in the oven or pan.

FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for tacos?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs are flavorful and stay moist, but chicken breasts also work well when cooked properly and not overdone.

Can I make this chicken in advance?

Yes, the chicken can be made up to 2 days ahead. Reheat gently before assembling tacos.

What toppings pair best with these tacos?

Avocado, cotija cheese, cilantro, lime, diced onion, and maybe a bit of salsa or crema.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add jalapeños, a spicy salsa, or increase chili powder or chipotle in adobo in the chicken.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas and taco seasonings.

What’s a good side dish for chicken tacos?

Mexican rice, black beans, street corn (elote), or a simple slaw.

How do I get tortillas soft and pliable?

Warm them on a dry skillet or directly over a flame, or microwave them with a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta is the closest in texture and saltiness. Queso fresco is another option.

How do I prevent tacos from falling apart?

Double the tortillas (like street tacos) or use slightly thicker tortillas. Toasting them helps durability.

Can I use a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely. Cook chicken on low for 4–6 hours in a slow cooker or pressure cook for about 10 minutes, then shred and simmer if needed.

Conclusion

These Chicken Tacos with Avocado and Cotija are a flavorful and versatile recipe that brings together the comfort of seasoned shredded chicken with the brightness of fresh toppings. Whether for Taco Tuesday or a weekend gathering, they’re easy to assemble, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy.

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