Best Easy Tacos de Pollo Recipe

Seasoned shredded chicken piled onto warm corn tortillas with salsa, onion, and cilantro. These high protein, chicken tacos make a healthy, family-friendly dinner that's quick to prepare.

Cook 30 min Difficulty EASY 315 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 lb
  • corn tortillas 8 pieces
  • yellow onion 1 small
  • fresh cilantro 0.5 cup
  • fresh salsa 0.75 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • chili powder 1 tsp
  • ground cumin 1 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
  • salt 0.75 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
  • lime juice 1 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 29 g 37%
Protein 26 g 33%
Fat 10 g 29%
Serving size 180g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat chicken breasts dry and season on both sides with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  2. 2

    Add chicken to the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, adjusting to medium-high for a golden crust. Add ⅓ cup water, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until cooked through.

  3. 3

    Remove chicken to a plate and let rest for 3 minutes. Shred with two forks, then mix with the juices in the skillet, adding fresh lime juice for moisture.

  4. 4

    Warm the corn tortillas: Wipe the skillet, add remaining olive oil, and cook each tortilla for 30 seconds per side on medium heat to soften and slightly brown.

  5. 5

    Assemble: Top each warm tortilla with a portion of shredded chicken, spoonfuls of salsa, finely diced onion, and plenty of fresh cilantro before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What are the key ingredients that make Tacos de Pollo distinctive?
The signature flavor of Tacos de Pollo comes from seasoned, shredded chicken breast paired with fresh corn tortillas. The combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and lime juice in the seasoning imparts a bright and savory profile, while fresh cilantro, diced onion, and salsa add freshness and texture. These ingredients together define the identity and appeal of this dish.
Q. What cooking techniques are essential for juicy chicken in this recipe?
Searing the chicken breasts first on medium-high heat develops flavor, then simmering them with a small amount of water under a lid ensures the chicken stays moist and cooks gently. Resting the chicken before shredding helps retain juices, and tossing the shredded chicken back in the skillet with lime juice further enhances moistness for tender taco filling.
Q. How do I avoid dry or chewy chicken in my Tacos de Pollo?
Use medium-high heat for initial searing, but avoid overcooking during the simmer. Simmer the chicken breasts covered until just cooked through, then let them rest before shredding. Adding lime juice when mixing the shredded chicken back with pan juices helps maintain moisture, resulting in juicy and tender taco filling.
Q. What is the nutrition profile and calorie count per serving for this recipe?
Each serving (about 180g) of this Tacos de Pollo recipe provides approximately 315 kcal, with 29g carbohydrates (37% of calories), 26g protein (33%), and 10g fat (29%). This makes it a well-balanced, high-protein meal option that fits many healthy eating patterns.
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