If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that requires minimal cleanup, One Pan Chicken Tacos are your go-to recipe.
With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, you can create a meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly tasty.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast: Tender and juicy, this will be the star of your tacos.
- Olive oil: For coating the chicken and helping it cook to perfection.
- 2 TBSP butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the chicken.
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper: Essential for basic seasoning.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: For a touch of heat without overwhelming spice.
- 2 tsp chili powder: Brings a deep, smoky flavor.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds warmth and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 tsp paprika: Enhances color and adds a mild sweetness.
- 1 tsp dried cilantro: Gives a fresh, herbaceous note.
- White corn tortillas: The perfect base for your tacos.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easy to fit into your tortillas.
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, cayenne pepper, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried cilantro, and black pepper.
- Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning. This step ensures every bite of chicken is packed with flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. The butter adds a rich flavor and helps the chicken get a nice, golden-brown crust.
- Once the butter is melted and hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This usually takes about 7-10 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
- Prepare the Tacos:
- Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add a little more olive oil to the skillet if needed. Place the white corn tortillas in the skillet. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over one half of each tortilla.
- Add some of the cooked chicken on top of the cheese, then fold the tortilla in half. Press down gently with a spatula.
- Finish Cooking the Tacos:
- Cook the folded tortillas in the skillet until both sides are golden brown and crispy. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. The cheese will melt and help seal the tacos, creating a delicious, gooey center.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once your tacos are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings. These tacos are fantastic with a dollop of sour cream and a side of Pico de Gallo.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Prep: Cutting the chicken into small pieces ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer more heat, add a bit more cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Tortillas: If you prefer, you can use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas. Just be sure to cook them until they’re crispy and golden.
These One Pan Chicken Tacos are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor.
With minimal effort and cleanup, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Enjoy your tacos with some fresh toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!