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+ servings

Chicken Mexican Street Tacos

A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken served in warm corn tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) Choose your preferred cut for tenderness.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil This adds richness and helps with marinating.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Freshly squeezed juice enhances flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic brings aromatic depth to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Cumin adds an earthy note that's essential in Mexican cuisine.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder For a kick of heat and color in the tacos.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika This introduces a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder Enhances overall flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
  • 12 small corn tortillas Use fresh tortillas for authentic texture and taste.
  • 0.5 cup diced white onion Adds crunch and sharpness to balance the flavors.
  • 0.5 cup chopped fresh cilantro Cilantro provides freshness and brightens the overall dish.
  • lime wedges for serving A squeeze of lime at serving time enhances acidity and flavor.
  • crumbled cotija cheese, for garnish (optional) Adds creaminess if desired.
  • salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce for extra toppings Customize your tacos as you like!

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Add the chicken pieces into this marinade ensuring they are well-coated on all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes; marinating longer will intensify the flavor.
  2. Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until hot enough to sear meat effectively without sticking.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl letting any excess marinade drip off before placing it directly into your hot pan. Cook each side of the chicken pieces for about 5-6 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Rest and Slice the Chicken: Transfer your chicken onto a cutting board allowing it to rest for about five minutes; then slice the chicken into thin strips.
  5. Warm the Tortillas: Warm up your corn tortillas in the same skillet or using a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable and slightly charred.
  6. Assemble the Tacos: Place slices of chicken in each tortilla then top generously with diced onions, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice before adding any additional toppings you desire.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g

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