Chicken Tacos with Cheese
Chicken Tacos with Cheese combine juicy, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and fresh toppings wrapped in soft tortillas for a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 tacos per person) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southwestern Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using corn tortillas and gluten-free seasoning)
Proteins and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika blend)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Carbohydrates
- 8 soft tortillas (flour or corn), warmed
Fresh Toppings
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 sliced avocado
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges (from 1 lime)
Optional Additions
- Sour cream, salsa, or pickled jalapeños (as desired)
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips or small chunks to ensure even cooking and optimal seasoning absorption.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with taco seasoning, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Warm and Prepare Tortillas: Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or over a low flame for a few seconds on each side until soft and pliable, releasing their aroma.
- Assemble the Tacos: Layer each warm tortilla with cooked chicken, a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese, and your favorite toppings such as diced tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado slices. The warmth of the chicken will help melt the cheese perfectly.
- Finish with a Squeeze of Lime: Drizzle fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos for a bright, zesty finish that complements the rich flavors.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken in seasoning and lime juice for 15 minutes before cooking to deepen flavor.
- Cook chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even browning.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and taste.
- Keep tortillas warm by wrapping them in a clean towel after heating to maintain softness.
- Adjust heat level by adding chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced chili peppers as preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken tacos, cheese tacos, quick dinner, easy tacos, family-friendly tacos, gluten-free tacos, Mexican cuisine