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Juicy, Quick Weeknight Chicken Street Tacos

Two delicious chicken tacos filled with shredded, saucy meat, topped with fresh cilantro and diced white onion.

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Make flavorful, restaurant-style chicken street tacos fast. This recipe uses simple ingredients to create juicy, seasoned chicken perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for topping)
  • 2 limes, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.
  2. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning the chicken once, until lightly browned on both sides.
  3. Pour the water or broth into the skillet. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
  4. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken completely.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and toss it with the remaining cooking liquid to coat it thoroughly and keep it juicy.
  7. Warm the corn tortillas according to package directions, either in a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave.
  8. Assemble your chicken street tacos by filling each warm tortilla with shredded chicken. Top with chopped onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

  • For extra authentic flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts; they stay juicier.
  • If you prefer a slow cooker chicken tacos method, cook the chicken and seasoning on low for 4 hours, then shred and toss with the liquid.
  • Make a simple cilantro lime chicken tacos marinade by mixing 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of the taco seasoning, then marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

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