chicken smash tacos recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken smash tacos recipe

I’ve always been a fan of Mexican cuisine, and one of my favorite dishes is the chicken smash taco. It’s a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit any taste.

The dish originated in Mexico, where it’s known as ‘tacos de pollo’ or ‘tacos de carne’. The key to this recipe is the technique of smashing the chicken against the pan to create a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.

This process not only adds texture but also helps to lock in the flavors of the spices and seasonings. I love making this recipe for family gatherings because it’s easy to feed a crowd and can be made in large quantities.

Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious as the freshly cooked tacos. My kids adore helping me assemble the tacos, loading up their favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and sour cream.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you today. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a birthday party or game day gathering.

Chicken Smash Tacos

4.8 from 1011 votes

Crispy, golden chicken patties smashed onto warm corn tortillas and topped with a tangy slaw and crema. These tacos are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb ground chicken
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Slaw

2 cups shredded cabbage
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt

For the Crema

1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp lime juice
1/4 tsp salt

For Serving

8 small corn tortillas
1 avocado, sliced
1 lime, cut into wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a bowl, combine ground chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4Divide the chicken mixture into 8 equal portions and place each in the skillet, then use a spatula to firmly smash each portion into a thin patty about 1/4 inch thick.
5Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
6The edges should be crispy and the center no longer pink.
7While the chicken cooks, prepare the slaw by tossing shredded cabbage with cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and salt.
8In a separate small bowl, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, and salt for the crema.
9Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and lightly toasted.
10Place two chicken patties on each tortilla, then top with slaw, a drizzle of crema, and sliced avocado.
11Serve immediately with lime wedges.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowls
Spatula
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra heat, add a minced jalapeno to the slaw or a dash of hot sauce to the crema. You can also use ground turkey instead of chicken.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Smash Tacos Works

This chicken smash tacos recipe is always a good idea for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution, these tacos are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it with your favorite toppings and adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Smash Tacos

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

The best type of chicken to use for this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a more tender meat.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and proceed with the rest of the instructions.

Q: What is the difference between smash tacos and regular tacos?

The main difference between smash tacos and regular tacos is the technique used to cook the meat. Smash tacos involve smashing the meat against the pan to create a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the ingredients for this recipe ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and cook the tacos just before serving.

Q: Can I add other toppings besides diced tomatoes and shredded cheese?

Of course! Some other popular toppings include sliced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and diced jalapenos.

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