Description of this recipe
These Crispy Chicken Tacos are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Tender, flavorful chicken, slow-cooked to perfection and mixed with cream cheese and cilantro, is nestled in crispy corn tortillas with melted cheese. Every bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors, from the satisfying crunch of the tortilla to the creamy, savory filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll love these Crispy Chicken Tacos because they are incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to prepare. The slow cooker does most of the work, infusing the chicken with rich taco flavor. The addition of cream cheese creates a luscious, creamy texture that elevates the filling to a new level of indulgence. The crispy corn tortillas add a delightful contrast to the soft filling, creating a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. They’re also highly customizable; you can easily adjust the spice level, add your favorite toppings, and adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these tacos are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a recipe that combines convenience with culinary excellence, offering a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, they are an exciting alternative to your regular taco night.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breast
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning or 1 store-bought package
- 16 ounce jar of chunky salsa
- 3 ounces cream cheese
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 12 corn tortillas
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breast, taco seasoning, and salsa in a slow cooker. Ensure the chicken is fully coated with the salsa and seasoning.
Step 2: Slow Cook: Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable. Cooking on low for a longer period allows the flavors to meld together more deeply, resulting in a richer taste.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with a fork. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to keep it warm.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese and Cilantro: Add the cream cheese and chopped cilantro to the shredded chicken in the slow cooker. Mix until the cream cheese is fully combined and the mixture is creamy and well-blended. The cream cheese adds a wonderful richness and creaminess to the filling, while the cilantro provides a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Step 5: Crisp the Tortillas: Heat a couple of tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the corn tortilla. Let them crisp up, then flip them, adding a little more oil as needed. The key is to get them golden brown and crispy without burning them.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos: Add a couple of tablespoons of shredded cheese and a couple of tablespoons of shredded chicken to each tortilla. Fold the tortilla over and cook for another 30 seconds, or until crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and fry the other side until the desired crispiness is achieved.
Step 7: Keep Warm: Remove the tacos to a paper towel-lined plate or place them in the oven heated to 200°F (93°C) to keep them warm until ready to serve. This step is important if you’re making a large batch, as it ensures that the tacos stay warm and crispy while you finish cooking the rest.
Step 8: Serve: Serve the Crispy Chicken Tacos immediately with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and hot sauce. The toppings add a final layer of flavor and texture that complements the crispy tacos perfectly.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Flavor Profile: Savory, Creamy, and Slightly Spicy
- Overall Rating: 5/5 stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
- Offer a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa, and hot sauce, so everyone can customize their tacos.
- Pair with a refreshing beverage, such as a margarita, Mexican beer, or iced tea.
- For a lighter option, serve with a side salad dressed with a zesty lime vinaigrette.
- Create a taco bar for parties, allowing guests to assemble their own tacos with a variety of fillings and toppings.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in taco seasoning overnight before cooking.
- Use a high-quality salsa for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your spice preference.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the chicken in a Dutch oven or large pot on the stovetop. Simmer until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
- To prevent the tortillas from tearing, warm them slightly before filling.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to fold and cook evenly.
- If you prefer soft tacos, skip the step of crisping the tortillas in the skillet.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with black beans or lentils.
- Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet until crispy.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- Slow Cooker: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Skillet: 10-15 minutes
Total Time:
- Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes (including slow cooking time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: The following values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 per taco
- Protein: Approximately 25-35 grams per taco
- Sodium: Approximately 500-700 milligrams per taco
Conclusion
These Crispy Chicken Tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. The ease of preparation, combined with the rich, satisfying taste, makes this recipe a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a festive celebration, these tacos are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a taco experience like no other. With their crispy tortillas, creamy chicken filling, and customizable toppings, these tacos are a culinary adventure that you’ll want to repeat again and again. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken and the satisfying crunch of the tortilla make these tacos irresistible. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Enjoy the process of creating something delicious and sharing it with those you love.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to assemble the tacos, simply heat the filling and proceed with the recipe. However, it’s best to crisp the tortillas and assemble the tacos just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
Q2: What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
A: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the chicken in a Dutch oven or large pot on the stovetop. Simply combine the chicken, taco seasoning, and salsa, and simmer over low heat until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable, about 1-1.5 hours. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Q3: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. However, keep in mind that corn tortillas tend to get crispier when fried. If using flour tortillas, you may want to lightly brush them with oil before crisping them in the skillet.
Q4: What are some other topping ideas for these tacos?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some other great topping ideas include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, pickled jalapeños, crumbled cotija cheese, and a drizzle of lime crema. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings to customize your tacos.
Q5: Are these tacos spicy?
A: The spice level of these tacos can be adjusted to your preference. If you like a milder flavor, use a mild salsa and taco seasoning. For a spicier kick, use a hot salsa and add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the taco seasoning. You can also serve the tacos with a side of hot sauce for those who like extra heat.
