Tacos are a beloved staple in many households, but often the store-bought versions can be loaded with unhealthy ingredients and excessive sodium. The solution? Making your own Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos at home! By taking control of the ingredients and the cooking process, you can create a delicious and health-conscious version of this beloved dish.
At the heart of these Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos is tender and flavorful shredded chicken that is seasoned with a homemade taco seasoning blend. The chicken is cooked to perfection and then piled into crispy taco shells, topped with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings, such as cheese, sliced radishes, cilantro, and salsa verde. The result is a mouthwatering bite that combines the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
But why go to the trouble of making your own shredded chicken tacos when you can easily pick up a packet of pre-made taco seasoning and a can of shredded chicken at the grocery store? The answer is simple – the control and customization. When you make your own taco seasoning, you can adjust the levels of spices to suit your taste preferences, and by using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can ensure that you are using a lean and healthy protein source.
Ingredients for SHREDDED CHICKEN TACOS
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 crispy taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sliced radishes
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Salsa verde, for serving
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Fork or tongs for shredding the chicken
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make your homemade taco seasoning blend.
- Season the chicken breasts with half of the taco seasoning blend, rubbing it into the meat to ensure even coverage.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and transfer to a cutting board. Use a fork or tongs to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and sprinkle with the remaining taco seasoning blend. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Arrange the crispy taco shells on a serving platter. Fill each shell with a generous amount of the shredded chicken.
- Top the tacos with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, sliced radishes, and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with salsa verde on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Enjoy your delicious and health-conscious Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos!
Tips and Variations
- For an added kick of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your homemade taco seasoning blend.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder in the taco seasoning blend.
- Customize your toppings by adding diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or pickled jalapeños.
- For a healthier alternative to crispy taco shells, you can use soft corn tortillas or lettuce wraps.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as crumbled queso fresco or tangy goat cheese, to explore new flavor profiles.
Health Benefits
These Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos provide a balanced meal that combines lean protein, healthy fats, and a variety of fresh veggies. The boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a high-quality protein source that supports muscle growth and repair. Additionally, the chicken is low in saturated fat, making it heart-healthy.
The homemade taco seasoning blend allows you to control the sodium content, avoiding excessive salt often found in store-bought taco seasoning packets. The flavorful spices, such as chili powder and cumin, not only enhance the taste of the dish but also provide a range of potential health benefits. For example, chili powder is rich in capsaicin, a compound that may have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties. Cumin, on the other hand, is known to aid digestion and promote healthy blood sugar levels.
By topping your Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos with sliced radishes and fresh cilantro, you’re adding additional layers of flavor and health benefits. Radishes are a crunchy and low-calorie vegetable that are packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Cilantro offers a burst of freshness and is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Get Creative in the Kitchen
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or unhealthy. By making your own Easy Shredded Chicken Tacos, you can enjoy the flavors you love while making smart choices for your well-being. These tacos are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with family and friends. So, grab your apron and get ready to delight your taste buds with this flavorful and health-conscious recipe!