Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a hot, cheesy taco at the end of a long day. These Baked Chicken Tacos are not only a breeze to make, but they’re also packed with bold flavors and delightful textures. Imagine tender, shredded chicken combined with zesty taco seasoning, nestled in a crispy shell and topped with melty cheese. With fresh avocado and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite during your weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 8 taco shells
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 tacos
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and toasty.
- In a skillet, drizzle the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts, cooking until they are no longer pink in the center, typically about 6-7 minutes per side. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced red onion. Mix everything well, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Carefully spoon the delicious chicken mixture evenly into the taco shells, filling them generously.
- Place the filled taco shells on a baking sheet. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, allowing it to melt into a bubbly, cheesy layer.
- Bake the tacos in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted to your liking.
- Remove the tacos from the oven, and add the finishing touches by topping them with diced tomatoes, creamy avocado slices, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- Serve these tasty tacos immediately, with lime wedges on the side for that perfect burst of citrus!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the chicken mixture! You can also customize these tacos with your favorite toppings, like sour cream or your favorite hot sauce.
Cooking Techniques
Shredding chicken can be easily done with two forks, but for a quicker method, you can also use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Just beat the chicken on low speed until it’s perfectly shredded.
FAQ
Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and will save you some time!
What can I serve with baked chicken tacos?
These tacos pair beautifully with a refreshing side salad or some homemade guacamole for a full fiesta experience!
Conclusion
These Baked Chicken Tacos are a fun and flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week. With their combination of textures and tastes, they’re sure to bring joy to your dinner table. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the savory embrace of these cheesy tacos, and share a delicious meal that warms the heart!