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Easy Chicken Tacos That Everyone Will Love

Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne optional for heat
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
For the Tacos:
  • 8 –10 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 avocado sliced or mashed
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or shredded cheese optional
  • Fresh lime wedges for serving

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the fridge for more flavor. Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, even 10 minutes will do. But the longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.
Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a touch of oil and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice or shred.
Warm the Tortillas
  1. Lightly toast tortillas on a dry skillet or open flame for a few seconds on each side. Wrap in a clean towel to keep warm.
Assemble Your Tacos
  1. Fill each tortilla with chicken, then top with avocado, cabbage, onions, cilantro, cheese, and a squeeze of lime.
Topping Ideas & Variations
  1. Toppings are where you can get creative! Try mixing and matching these to suit your tastes:
  2. Spicy crema: Mix sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime juice and hot sauce.

Notes

Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts work great if that’s what you have.
Marinate Ahead: If you can plan ahead, let the chicken marinate overnight for the best flavor.
Use a Cast Iron Skillet: You’ll get a beautiful sear and some char on the chicken, which adds smoky depth.
Don’t Overfill Tacos: It’s tempting to pile everything on, but keeping them manageable makes eating them way more enjoyable.