Speedy Fiesta Chicken
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever wondered what to do with plain chicken? Honestly, this chicken in taco seasoning recipe is a game changer. It adds serious flavour with minimum effort.
Think of it as a flavour bomb that's super versatile.
Brief Overview
This fiesta worthy dish has roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, but it’s evolved into a quick weeknight staple worldwide. It is an easy level recipe, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe yields 4 servings perfect for a family meal.
Main Benefits
It's packed with protein for sustained energy and really, really tasty. "Spicy Chicken Tacos" are the perfect answer for a no-fuss dinner party.
What makes it special? The homemade taco seasoning recipe really delivers.
Let's Talk Ingredients
Alright, so for this Speedy Fiesta Chicken, you'll need 1.5 lbs (680g) of chicken breasts or thighs. I personally love using thighs for extra flavour.
Don't forget 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil.
Now, for the Taco Seasoning Recipe , here’s what you need: 2 tablespoons (24g) chili powder, 1 tablespoon (8g) ground cumin, 1 teaspoon (5g) smoked paprika (it gives it a lovely depth!), 1 teaspoon (6g) garlic powder, 1 teaspoon (6g) onion powder, ½ teaspoon (3g) dried oregano, ½ teaspoon (3g)
kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon (1g) black pepper, and a tiny pinch, about ¼ teaspoon (1g), of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of a kick.
Feel free to create your own Homemade Taco Seasoning .
Ingredients & Equipment
So, you fancy making some proper Chicken in Taco Seasoning ? Ace! This ain’t your basic btch taco night. Get ready for flavour.
Main Ingredients
Here's the shopping list. Don't skimp on the spices, yeah? Makes all the difference.
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs ( 680g ) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Quality Check: Get the good stuff. Fresh, plump chicken. None of that dodgy, slimy business.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ).
- Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons ( 24g ).
- Ground Cumin: 1 tablespoon ( 8g ).
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon ( 5g ) (or regular paprika).
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon ( 6g ).
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon ( 6g ).
- Dried Oregano: ½ teaspoon ( 3g ).
- Kosher Salt: ½ teaspoon ( 3g ).
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon ( 1g ).
- Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon ( 1g ) (optional, for that kick).
Honestly, sometimes I just eyeball the spices. But these measurements will give you a good base. If you need to make taco seasoning , you are in the right place!
Seasoning Notes
Right, the flavour bomb. It's all about balance, innit?
- Essential Spice Combo: Chili powder + cumin + smoked paprika. This is your foundation. The holy trinity of taco seasoning recipe .
- Aromatics: Garlic and onion powder. They bring the umami .
- Flavour Enhancers: Oregano, salt, pepper. These make everything pop.
- Quick Subs: No smoked paprika? Regular paprika will do in a pinch. Want more of a kick? A dash of cayenne pepper sorts that out.
Remember that the homemade taco seasoning recipe is the most important part of this amazing dish.
Equipment Needed
No need for fancy kit here. Keep it simple, yeah?
- Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken. Non-stick is your friend.
- Mixing Bowl: For mixing the homemade taco seasoning .
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Obvs.
- Tongs: For wrangling the chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: (Optional) to make sure the chicken is cooked 165° F ( 74° C) . No one wants salmonella surprise.
Don't have a mixing bowl? A big mug will do. No fancy tongs? Use a fork. We’re not judging. To create this easy chicken taco meat , all of these steps are crucial.
Speedy Fiesta Chicken: Your Go-To Taco Seasoned Chicken
Forget boring chicken dinners, yeah? This Speedy Fiesta Chicken is about to become your new fave. It’s all about bold flavor and crazy easy prep.
Honestly, even if you're not exactly Gordon Ramsay, you can nail this! It's taco seasoned chicken for every occasion! Plus, with a homemade taco seasoning recipe that is so good, you'll bin the store-bought stuff.
Prep Power-Up
Essential mise en place , innit? Get everything ready before you start. Chop the 1.5 lbs chicken into bite sized pieces.
Mix the taco seasoning recipe in a bowl. Have your 1 tbsp olive oil ready to go. Time saving: measure out all the spices at once.
Safety: Don't be a numpty, wash your hands after handling raw chicken!
Sizzle Time: The step-by-step
- First, combine 2 tbsp chili powder , 1 tbsp ground cumin , 1 tsp smoked paprika , 1 tsp garlic powder , 1 tsp onion powder , ½ tsp dried oregano , ½ tsp kosher salt , ¼ tsp black pepper , and optionally ¼ tsp cayenne pepper in a bowl.
- Next, add the glorious taco seasoning to the 680g chicken . Make sure it's fully coated.
- Heat the 15 ml olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat.
- Chuck the seasoned chicken into the hot pan.
- Cook, stirring now and then, until fully cooked.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one, the internal temp should hit 165° F ( 74° C) . This is super important.
- Let it rest for a couple minutes. Honestly, that makes all the difference.
Pro Secrets to Taco Chicken Nirvana
Don't overcrowd the pan, cook in batches if needed. A top tip for maximum browning.Spice it how you like it.
Want it hotter? Add more cayenne. Want it milder? Leave it out. Make a bigger batch of homemade taco seasoning and stash it away for later.
A proper time saver. Trust me. Avoid burning the spices by keeping the heat at medium high. Rest your easy chicken taco meat for better flavor.
I once tried to make this chicken in taco seasoning after a few too many shandies. The seasoning ended up everywhere ! Learn from my mistakes.
This chicken taco filling is divine, perfect for a chicken taco bowl recipe . It's also amazing in a taco chicken salad or even quick chicken fajitas .
Enjoy, and don't be a stranger!
Recipe Notes for Your Speedy Fiesta Chicken
Right then, you've got the basics for this tasty chicken in taco seasoning . But, there's always more to know, innit? Honestly, I learn something new every time I cook.
It's like a never ending culinary adventure. Let's dive into some extra tips to make your fiesta chicken even better.
Ace Serving Suggestions
Think about how you're going to plate this up. It all starts with the eyes, doesn't it? For tacos, warm the tortillas slightly.
Nobody likes a cold, stiff tortilla! For a bowl, layer ingredients beautifully. This Chicken Taco Bowl Recipe will become your go-to! For a quick side, consider some Mexican rice.
A cold beer also pairs nicely. Just saying!
Storage Know How
Pop any leftovers in an airtight container. They'll be good in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can even freeze it! Just make sure it's properly cooled first.
For reheating, a microwave works fine. For a better result, reheat in a pan with a little oil. This Easy Chicken Taco Meat is great for meal prep.
Variations: Keep Things Interesting
Want to mix things up? Swap out the chicken for tofu for a veggie option. Or, try using different cuts of chicken.
Thighs are more flavourful, aren't they? For a seasonal twist, add roasted sweet potatoes in the fall. For dietary adaptations, go easy on the salt if you are watching your sodium.
Nutrition: A Little Bit of Knowledge
Each serving is roughly 300 calories, with 40g of protein. The chicken is a great source of lean protein. The spices also have health benefits.
Cumin is great for digestion, for instance. Remember, this is an estimate. Make sure to check your exact ingredients for precise figures.
Honestly, making a Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe is surprisingly easy. This Fiesta Chicken recipe is your new best friend. This Taco Seasoning Recipe has completely changed my life and the way I used to make bland chicken.
Plus, it's perfect for busy weeknights. So, give it a go, have some fun, and don't be afraid to experiment.
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken in taco seasoning recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the taco seasoning blend in advance is a great time saver. You can store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This is perfect for meal prepping your taco fillings for the week a real "Sorted" level tip!
How do I make sure my chicken in taco seasoning doesn't end up dry?
The key is not to overcook it! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, don't overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches allows the chicken to sear properly and retain moisture. Letting the chicken rest after cooking also makes for a great dish.
What variations can I try with this taco seasoned chicken recipe?
Loads! For a spicier kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also swap the chicken for crumbled firm tofu or canned black beans for a vegetarian option. Think of it as your blank canvas go wild! You can also substitute the paprika for chipotle powder.
Is chicken in taco seasoning healthy?
This recipe can be part of a healthy diet! It's a good source of protein and relatively low in fat, especially if you use chicken breast. To keep it even healthier, serve it with plenty of vegetables and opt for whole wheat tortillas or lettuce wraps. Remember to balance the rest of your meal to keep it a balanced one!
Can I freeze leftover chicken in taco seasoning?
Yes, you can! Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer safe container or zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, it is as simple as that!
Can I use pre-made taco seasoning instead of making my own for the chicken in taco seasoning recipe?
While homemade seasoning is preferable for its freshness and control over ingredients (no hidden nasties!), you absolutely can use a pre-made taco seasoning packet in a pinch. Just adjust the amount to your taste, as some packets can be quite salty.
Be sure to check the ingredients list to avoid any unwanted additives if you are watching your salt and sugar intake.
Speedy Fiesta Chicken
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 300 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 0g |
