Introduction

Ground chicken tacos offer a delicious and healthy twist on traditional tacos. They are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a perfect weeknight dinner option. With the right blend of spices and fresh ingredients, these tacos are sure to satisfy anyone’s cravings.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Ground chicken: 1 pound
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
Taco seasoning: 1 packet (or homemade equivalent)
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Taco shells: 8 (hard or soft, based on preference)
Lettuce: 1 cup, shredded
Tomatoes: 1 cup, diced
Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Sour cream: for serving
Salsa: for serving

Prep Time

Prep time for ground chicken tacos is approximately 10 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 15 minutes, making the total time around 25 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Cook the Ground Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once heated, add the ground chicken to the skillet.

Add the Seasoning

Cook the chicken until it starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mix over the chicken and stir well to combine.

Add the Liquid

Pour in a little chicken broth (or water if you prefer) to help the spices adhere and create a bit of sauce. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the liquid has mostly evaporated.

Prepare the Tacos

Warm taco shells or tortillas in a separate pan or microwave for about 30 seconds until pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each taco shell with the seasoned ground chicken mixture.

Add Toppings

Top the tacos with your choice of toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, avocado, and salsa.

Serve

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

Notes

Ground Chicken Substitute

You can substitute ground turkey or beef if preferred.

Vegan Option

For a vegetarian option, use a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu instead of ground chicken.

Storage

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the seasoned ground chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Spice Levels

Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.

Cook techniques

Cooking Ground Chicken

Cooking ground chicken is similar to cooking other types of ground meat. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir frequently until it is browned and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the flavor of ground chicken. A mixture of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt can create a delicious base. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed during the cooking process.

Preparing Tacos

For assembling tacos, warm the taco shells in a dry skillet or in the oven. Load them with the cooked ground chicken, and then add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and avocado for added flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover ground chicken tacos, store the filling separately from the taco shells in airtight containers. The ground chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQ

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe, as they have similar cooking times and flavors.

What vegetables can I add to the filling?

You can add chopped bell peppers, onions, or even corn to the ground chicken as it cooks to enhance the flavor and add more nutrition.

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The ground chicken filling can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free taco shells or lettuce wraps to make the tacos gluten-free.

How can I make these tacos spicier?

To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños while cooking the chicken or incorporate hot sauce into the seasoning mixture.

Conclusion

Cooking ground chicken tacos is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef tacos. With their versatile flavor profile, these tacos can be customized to suit any taste preference, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of fresh ingredients and spices brings a satisfying taste and texture that everyone will enjoy.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Ground Chicken Taco Salad

Transform your tacos into a refreshing salad by serving the ground chicken, toppings, and dressing over a bed of mixed greens. Add avocado, cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing for a nutritious twist.

Chicken Taco Stuffed Peppers

For a fun and healthy alternative, hollow out bell peppers and fill them with your ground chicken mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender for a flavorful low-carb dish.

Ground Chicken Burrito Bowl

Take the ingredients from the tacos and create a burrito bowl. Layer cooked rice or quinoa, ground chicken, beans, corn, and your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal.

Chicken Taco Quesadillas

Use the same seasoned ground chicken filling to make quesadillas. Add cheese and grill until crispy for a melty and delicious snack or meal option.

Spicy Chicken Taco Pizza

Spread the ground chicken taco filling over a pizza crust, top with cheese, and bake for a unique twist on pizza night. Layer with fresh toppings after baking for added flavor.