These easy crispy chicken tacos are a fun twist on a classic favorite! With tender chicken inside a crunchy shell, they’re sure to make your taste buds happy.
Assembling these tacos is a breeze! I like to load mine with fresh toppings like lettuce and salsa. It’s like a mini party in every bite! 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show, providing a lean protein. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works well too. You could even use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is easy, but you can make your own blend. Try adding more spices based on your taste, like smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the salt based on the seasoning blend you use!
Corn Tortillas: Corn tortillas give the best crunch! If you’re gluten-free, check for gluten-free corn tortillas. Flour tortillas can be used, but they won’t be as crispy.
Cilantro: This fresh herb brightens up the flavor. If you’re not a fan, green onions or parsley can also add a nice touch.
How Do I Make Crispy Tortillas?
Getting those tortillas crispy can be tricky, but it’s key for great texture. Follow these tips for perfect results:
- Heat oil to medium-high, not smoking. This helps them fry evenly without burning.
- Dipping tortillas in hot oil for a second before folding helps them hold their shape. You can also lightly fry them flat until they start to crisp, then fold.
- Hold them in a folded position for about 10 seconds. This ensures they shape well and get crispy!
- Drain them on paper towels. This removes excess oil, keeping them crispy longer.
Enjoy making these tacos! They’re a hit for family dinners or gatherings!
Easy Crispy Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz) or homemade taco seasoning:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded lettuce (optional, for serving)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. You’ll be enjoying your delicious tacos in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken Filling:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell the garlic aroma.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Now, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take approximately 6-8 minutes. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken and pour in 1/2 cup of water. Stir everything to combine, and let it simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated and the mixture thickens slightly. This should take around 3-5 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat once done.
3. Frying the Tortillas:
Next, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. For each corn tortilla, dip it briefly into the hot oil, then fold it in half using tongs and hold it for about 10 seconds to crisp up. Once crispy, transfer the tortillas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Assembling the Tacos:
Once your tortillas are ready, you can fill them! Take each crispy tortilla and add a generous spoonful of the seasoned chicken mixture. Then, sprinkle some cheese on top of the hot chicken so it begins to melt.
5. Garnishing and Serving:
To finish, garnish your tacos with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve with optional shredded lettuce and lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful crispy chicken tacos!
They’re easy to make and perfect for a casual gathering or a cozy dinner at home!
Easy Crispy Chicken Tacos FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
How Can I Make the Tacos Spicier?
If you like things spicy, consider adding more cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning or mixing in diced jalapeños with the filling. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat on the stove until warmed through before filling your tortillas.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, it’s best to store tortillas separately. Reheat the filling and prepare fresh crispy tortillas when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
