Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful and crunchy twist on traditional tacos, this recipe for crunchy chicken tacos with homemade taco slaw is the perfect solution. Using tender chicken strips coated with panko breadcrumbs and seasoned with a mix of spices, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the easy steps to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients:
Chicken:
500g (1 lb) chicken tenderloins, halved lengthwise into 16 strips (or use chicken breast)
Panko Breadcrumbs:
2 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray
Taco Seasoning:
2 teaspoons cumin powder
2 teaspoons paprika (regular or sweet, not hot or smoked)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or onion powder)
1 teaspoon onion powder (or garlic powder)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon cooking salt/kosher salt (use half for table salt)
Dredge Batter:
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons plain/all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil)
Pinch of salt
For Tacos:
12–16 taco-size soft tortillas
1 batch Taco Slaw
1 large avocado, sliced
Sriracha, for drizzling
2 tablespoons roughly chopped coriander/cilantro leaves
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
12–16 tacos
This crunchy chicken taco recipe not only delights the taste buds but adds a fun twist to your regular taco night. With easy-to-follow steps and a balance of fresh ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the cooking process and the joyful smiles around the dinner table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Toast Panko
– Preheat oven to 200°C/400°F (180°C fan-forced).
– Mix panko breadcrumbs with taco seasoning in a bowl.
– Spread mixture on a tray, spray with olive oil, spread out evenly, and spray again.
– Bake for 7 minutes, stirring once, until golden brown.
– Transfer toasted breadcrumbs to a 20cm/8″ pan or similar dish.
Prepare Chicken
– Place a rack on the used tray and spray it with oil.
– In a bowl, whisk together eggs, flour, mayonnaise (or olive oil), and a pinch of salt until smooth.
– Add chicken strips to the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Crumb Chicken
– Using one hand, lift a piece of chicken, let excess batter drip off, and place it in the breadcrumb mixture.
– With the other hand, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the chicken, press to adhere, and place on the prepared rack.
– Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
Bake Chicken
– Spray crumbed chicken generously with olive oil.
– Bake for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
Warm Tortillas
– While chicken bakes, wrap tortillas in foil and place in the oven to warm.
Assemble Tacos
– Place a warm tortilla on a plate.
– Add a generous amount of Taco Slaw.
– Top with 2 avocado slices and a crunchy chicken finger.
– Drizzle with sriracha and sprinkle with coriander/cilantro leaves.
– Repeat with remaining tortillas and serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken Options
– You can substitute chicken tenderloins with chicken breast if preferred.
Panko Breadcrumbs
– Ensure the breadcrumbs are well-coated with olive oil for optimal crispiness.
Adjusting Spice Level
– The cayenne pepper is optional; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
Storage
– Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
– Feel free to add additional toppings like cheese or salsa for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Toasting Panko Breadcrumbs
Toasting panko breadcrumbs enhances their flavor and creates a crispy texture. Spread the breadcrumbs mixed with taco seasoning evenly on a baking tray, spray with olive oil, and bake until golden brown.
Preparing Chicken
Preparing chicken is crucial for coating. Whisk eggs, flour, mayonnaise (or olive oil), and salt until smooth to create a batter. This ensures the breadcrumbs adhere well to the chicken strips.
Crumbing Chicken
Crumbing chicken requires a methodical approach. Use one hand for the wet batter and the other for the breadcrumb mixture. This keeps the hands cleaner and ensures even coating, making the chicken crispy after baking.
Baking Chicken
Baking chicken instead of frying reduces excess oil while still achieving a crunchy texture. Generously spray the crumbed chicken with olive oil to help it crisp up in the oven.
Warming Tortillas
Warming tortillas enhances their flavor and makes them more pliable, making it easier to fold and fill them with ingredients. Wrapped in foil, they can be warmed in the oven alongside the baking chicken.
Assembling Tacos
Assembling tacos is about layering flavors. Start with a warm tortilla, add a base like Taco Slaw, then layer with avocado and crunchy chicken, finishing with sriracha and fresh herbs for added zest.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of tenderloins. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly, as thighs may take a little longer.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, although the texture will be different. Toasting them will help improve the crunchiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour alternative.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
The cayenne pepper is optional. It adds a bit of heat, but you can omit it for a milder flavor.
Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, the chicken can be coated and stored in the fridge before baking. Just make sure to bake it fresh when ready to serve for optimal crispiness.
Conclusion
This delicious baked chicken taco recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional tacos by using panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch without frying. The blend of taco seasoning adds vibrant flavor, complemented by fresh toppings like avocado and sriracha. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to impress!
Chicken Fajitas
Make savory chicken fajitas by marinating the chicken strips in lime juice, garlic, and spices before grilling. Serve with sautéed peppers and onions and warm tortillas.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Transform the chicken by tossing it in buffalo sauce after baking. Serve in tortillas with celery slaw and blue cheese dressing for a spicy twist.
Chicken Caesar Wraps
Use the baked chicken strips in a Caesar salad wrap with romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, and croutons in a soft tortilla.
Chicken and Avocado Salad
Shred the baked chicken and mix it into a salad with mixed greens, diced tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a fresh meal.
Nacho Chicken Tacos
Layer the baked chicken, cheese, and jalapeños over tortilla chips, and bake until bubbly. Serve with sour cream and guacamole on the side for a nacho-inspired taco night.
