Description
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos offer an easy and flavor-packed meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with taco spices, baked to juicy perfection, then shredded and piled into warm corn tortillas with melted cheese, fresh lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a delicious Mexican-inspired dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (substitute with turkey or tofu if desired)
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning (store-bought or homemade, adjust spice level as preferred)
Taco Assemblies
- 6 pieces Corn Tortillas (flour tortillas can be used as an alternative)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar; dairy-free alternative if needed)
- 2 cups Shredded Lettuce (or substitute with cabbage)
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (or use salsa or pico de gallo)
Instructions
- Preparation Steps: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts evenly with taco seasoning and minced garlic to infuse flavor.
- Bake Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest and cool slightly for a few minutes, then shred it finely using two forks for easy assembly.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for 15-30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
- Assemble Tacos: Fill each warmed tortilla with a generous amount of shredded chicken, then top with shredded cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a fresh, crunchy finish.
- Serve: Serve the tacos warm and optionally drizzle with your favorite sauces or additional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce to enhance flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder works well as a substitute.
- Flour tortillas may be used instead of corn tortillas based on personal preference.
- To make the dish dairy-free, opt for a vegan cheese alternative or omit cheese.
- Additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or hot sauce can be added to personalize your tacos.
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
