Introduction
This flavorful chicken recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a quick and delicious meal. With a blend of spices that elevate the succulent chicken thighs, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Serve it in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like pico de gallo, avocado, and cilantro for a vibrant dish that’s sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon canola oil
12 mini flour tortillas, warmed
1 cup pico de gallo, homemade or store-bought
1 avocado, halved, peeled, seeded, and diced
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 lime, cut into wedges
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 to 6
Enjoy assembling the warm tortillas with the flavorful diced chicken and fresh toppings to create a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine all the spices evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take the boneless, skinless chicken thighs and evenly season them with the prepared spice mixture. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
In a large cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot before adding the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Working in batches, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Cool and Dice the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Then, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for serving.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Warm the mini flour tortillas and place the diced chicken in each tortilla. Top generously with pico de gallo, diced avocado, chopped fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
Note 1: Spice Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences. You can add more chili powder for extra heat or reduce it for a milder version.
Note 2: Cooking in Batches
If you have a large quantity of chicken, consider dividing it into several batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which allows for better browning.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
These tacos are also delicious with additional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños according to your preference.
Cook techniques
Mixing Spices
Combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create a flavorful spice blend for seasoning the chicken.
Seasoning Chicken
Evenly coat boneless, skinless chicken thighs with the spice mixture to enhance their flavor before cooking.
Searing Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches, allowing for even browning and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Letting Chicken Rest
Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool briefly before dicing into bite-sized pieces, which helps retain its juices and flavor.
Assembling Tacos
Serve the diced chicken in warmed mini flour tortillas, topped with pico de gallo, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for a fresh and vibrant dish.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks, but cooking times may vary based on the type and thickness of the cut.
What if I can’t find smoked paprika?
If smoked paprika is unavailable, you can substitute with regular paprika and increase the amount of chili powder slightly for added flavor.
Can I prepare the spice mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix the spices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for several weeks.
How can I make the pico de gallo?
Combine diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and seasoning to taste for a simple pico de gallo.
What are some good toppings for the tacos?
In addition to pico de gallo and avocado, consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This flavorful chicken taco recipe combines a blend of spices that create a delicious and satisfying meal. The addition of fresh toppings like pico de gallo, avocado, and cilantro enhances the dish, making it perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy these quick and easy tacos with a squeeze of lime for extra zest!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Fajitas
Try marinating the chicken thighs in the same spice mix and serving them with sautéed bell peppers and onions for sizzling fajitas.
Chicken Burrito Bowls
Create a hearty burrito bowl by layering the seasoned chicken with rice, beans, corn, and your favorite toppings.
Spicy Chicken Quesadillas
Use the seasoned chicken in tortillas with cheese for quesadillas, grilling until crispy and serving with salsa and guacamole.
Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
For a tropical twist, top your chicken tacos with a mango salsa made from diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice.
Grilled Chicken Salad
Dice the seasoned chicken and toss it over a bed of greens with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
