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Best Chicken Tacos Recipe Easy

Best Chicken Tacos Recipe Easy

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Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small 1/2-inch bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 8–12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional Toppings: Diced white onion, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, crumbled cotija cheese, salsa, or sour cream

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season the Chicken: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken pieces with the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the spice mixture. Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  2. Step 2: Sear and Cook: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in two batches if necessary. Let the chicken sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Stir and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Drizzle the fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken and toss to combine.
  3. Step 3: Warm Tortillas and Assemble: While the chicken rests for a minute, warm your tortillas. You can do this by placing them directly over a gas flame for a few seconds per side using tongs, or by heating them in a dry skillet until soft and pliable. Place a generous spoonful of the seasoned chicken into each tortilla. Top with your desired garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of extra lime.