Only 20 minutes required to serve these chicken tacos! Tender, tasty, and completely effortless in the best possible manner.
In This Post
These Are My Go-To Chicken Tacos, Which You Can Prepare Without Even Looking!
We have a wide array of fantastic chicken taco recipes on Pinch of Yum (this particular one is a standout!), but I frequently crave a straightforward chicken taco recipe perfect for a Tuesday evening that’s simple enough that I don’t need to consult a recipe.
I seek to completely power down, switch to autopilot, and have these chicken tacos ready in just 20 minutes. (And ideally, they should also be among the most delectable, tastiest tacos I’ve ever prepared.)
This is how I came to discover what is likely our new family favorite chicken taco. This is my current go-to. The chicken for these tacos is succulent, packed with flavor, and is often devoured right off the cutting board. Just utterly effortless in the most amazing way.
Just remember three essential ingredients:
- Taco seasoning
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
These three culinary wonders deliver flavor, flavor, and even more flavor. The chicken develops a delightful brownish crust that almost resembles being grilled. Once the chicken is ready, you’re in the clear! Add a drizzle of green sauce, wrap it in a tortilla, create a rice bowl or burrito, and suddenly life is amazing.
I typically finish with cilantro and onions, but this would also be excellent served with pickled onions and/or a fresh green salad on the side!
Don’t skip the green sauce unless you’re short on time; in that case, a beloved store-bought salsa works just fine (think: Mateo’s or Trader Joe’s guacasalsa). Alternatively, for an even quicker homemade option, try this quick 2-minute avocado dip!
Family favorite. Extra lime to squeeze on top. Life is splendid!
Welcome To My Kitchen! Let’s Create Some Chicken Tacos.
These Tacos Summarized
Season the Chicken.
Three main ingredients: taco seasoning, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce! In the image, I apply taco seasoning to the chicken first, but I’ve found that the best mixing occurs when you start with the wet ingredients (oil and soy sauce) and then add the dry spices. It doesn’t become too clumpy that way.
Cook the Chicken.
I enjoy air frying it – 425 degrees for 11 minutes. Alternate cooking techniques are provided in the notes if you lack an air fryer!
Prepare a Green Sauce.
This isn’t mandatory, but it’s a sauce that enhances the enjoyment of life.
Chop the Chicken.
Simply give it a rough chop into small bite-sized pieces, similar to what you’d find at Chipotle. While you’re at it, feel free to chop some cilantro and onions as well!
You’re All Set! Delicious!
Wow, these are addictive! I can easily consume many of them.
Incredibly Tasty Chicken Tacos with Green Sauce
Total Time:
22 minutesYield:
2–4 servings 1x
Description
Only 20 minutes required to serve these chicken tacos! Tender, tasty, and completely effortless in the best possible manner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken Tacos
Avocado Aji Verde
Extras
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Trim the fat off the chicken thighs if desired (I prefer to). Toss the chicken thighs with soy sauce, oil, and garlic. Sprinkle on taco seasoning and mix briefly.
- Cook the Chicken: Place chicken in the air fryer basket (alternate cooking instructions found in the notes). Air fry at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes – it should emerge very crispy, golden, juicy, and delicious.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, blend the sauce in a small food processor or blender. If it’s too thick, add more water; if too thin, incorporate a bit more avocado or mayo.
- Chop the Chicken: When the chicken is cooked, allow it to rest for a few minutes, then roughly chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. Squeeze some lime juice over it. *chef’s kiss*
- All Done! Yum! Add a dollop of sauce to a tortilla, pile on that juicy chicken, and finish with cilantro and diced onion (and likely more sauce)! It’s a delightful experience.
Notes
Once the chicken is in the air fryer (or on a baking sheet), if it seems under-seasoned, sprinkle a bit more taco seasoning and oil to evenly coat the surface, or brush on some extra flavor from the bowl. Though not necessary for flavor, it would enhance the aesthetic!
I typically cook mine for 11 minutes at 400 degrees – that seems optimal for my air fryer, though they may vary slightly. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Here’s the meat thermometer I consistently use to ensure it’s perfect!
Every taco seasoning varies, so you may need to experiment to determine the one that suits you best! Many blend in corn starch, assisting in achieving that crisp, golden exterior on the chicken. Some may be sweeter, spicier, saltier, etc. I usually opt for the Siete taco seasoning (mild) as it strikes the right balance for my family and is delicious as well. It’s our top choice!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Keywords: chicken tacos, easy chicken tacos, best chicken tacos, air fryer chicken
Frequently Asked Questions About These Chicken Tacos
What kind of tortillas are featured in the photos?
These are from La Tortilla Factory, a yellow corn-flour blend! I warm them in a dry cast iron skillet first to make them soft and flexible.
Is it possible to substitute Greek yogurt for mayo?
Absolutely! The sauce will have a slightly tangy flavor – different, yet delicious! I recommend full fat Greek yogurt if possible!
What can be used instead of cilantro?
You can use the green tops of green onions!
Can the sauce be made without Cotija cheese? (dairy-free)
Yes! Definitely. I’ve made it many times. Just season with a bit of salt to compensate for the missing flavor!
Can you substitute chicken breasts?
I haven’t tried it yet, but it should work! You might notice a slightly different texture as it won’t have the same fat content for achieving the golden crispiness of the thighs.
What’s the alternative for cooking the chicken without an air fryer?
For chicken thighs, bake them at 400 degrees for around 20 minutes! (Remember: aim for 165 degrees and a beautifully golden exterior.) Pan-frying or grilling are also good options!