Are you tired of the same old taco recipe? Look no further! Today, we’re sharing 18 flavorful shredded chicken taco recipes that will take your taco game to the next level. From spicy chipotle to creamy avocado lime, and from BBQ pineapple to smoky paprika, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or prefer milder options, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make! Simply shred some chicken, add your favorite seasonings and toppings, and serve in a taco shell. It’s that simple.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different shredded chicken taco recipes that will have you saying adiós to boring tacos for good. From classic Mexican flavors to international twists, we’ve got it all covered. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some deliciousness, and let’s dive in!
Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Tacos
Add a kick to your taco Tuesday with this spicy chipotle shredded chicken recipe. A flavorful combination of smoky chipotle peppers, tender chicken, and crunchy toppings will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken broth, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve in tacos with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Avocado Lime Shredded Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing twist on classic chicken tacos. Creamy avocado and zesty lime come together to create a flavor combination that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken, avocado, lime juice, Greek yogurt, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Shred the chicken mixture with two forks until it resembles shredded chicken.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the creamy chicken mixture onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
BBQ Pineapple Shredded Chicken Tacos
Savor the flavors of tropical summer with these BBQ Pineapple Shredded Chicken Tacos, a twist on classic tacos that combines sweet and savory notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, red onion
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice.
3. Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Shred chicken with two forks and mix with pineapple chunks.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for 2 minutes.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken mixture onto a tortilla, topping with cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Garlic Cilantro Shredded Chicken Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these garlic cilantro shredded chicken tacos are perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto a warmed tortilla and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Shredded Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the creaminess of ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken breasts and buffalo sauce until fully coated.
3. Sprinkle ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto tortillas, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Shredded Chicken Tacos
Brighten up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines the spiciness of jalapeños, the zest of lime, and the tender texture of shredded chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, chopped jalapeños, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and place it in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto a tortilla, adding desired toppings, and serving immediately.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (includes marinating time)
Mango Salsa Shredded Chicken Tacos
A tropical twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango with the spice of chicken for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup mango salsa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced onion and mix well.
4. Place chicken breasts in the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Shred chicken with two forks and stir in mango salsa.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto a tortilla, topping with cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Shredded Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of smoky paprika with the comfort of shredded chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt over the chicken; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Shredded Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine. Shredded chicken is smothered in a rich pesto-parmesan sauce, wrapped in crispy tacos shells and topped with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the chicken is fully coated.
3. Place the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the shredded chicken onto a warmed tortilla, topping with shredded cheese and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Thai Peanut Shredded Chicken Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Thai peanut sauce with the comfort of shredded chicken and crispy taco shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 1/4 cup Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken and Thai peanut sauce. Toss until well coated.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of red bell pepper, cucumber, and cilantro.
4. Serve with lime wedges and additional peanut sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Chili Shredded Chicken Tacos
Sweet Chili Shredded Chicken Tacos Recipe
This sweet and spicy taco recipe is a twist on traditional chicken tacos, with the added depth of flavor from sweet chili sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco-sized corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto tortillas and topping with cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Cajun Spiced Shredded Chicken Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe! This Cajun-inspired twist on traditional tacos is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with shredded chicken, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Herb Shredded Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, featuring tender shredded chicken smothered in a rich Mediterranean herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and roast for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and mix with the herb mixture.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
Tequila Lime Shredded Chicken Tacos
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your tacos with this refreshing recipe. Shredded chicken, infused with the zesty essence of tequila and lime, is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup tequila (or substitute with lime juice)
– 2 limes, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together tequila (or lime juice), olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove from marinade and shred with two forks.
5. Cook shredded chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken onto tortillas and topping with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes (includes marinating time)
Pico de Gallo Shredded Chicken Tacos
A fresh twist on classic tacos, this recipe combines juicy shredded chicken with the bold flavors of pico de gallo and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pico de gallo (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken breasts and pico de gallo.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto a tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Curry Coconut Shredded Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining the warmth of curry and coconut with tender shredded chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup curry powder
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together curry powder, coconut oil, onion, garlic, and chicken.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in coconut milk, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Shredded Chicken Tacos
Transform ordinary tacos into a flavorful fiesta with this simple recipe. Sweet and tangy honey mustard adds a delightful twist to classic shredded chicken tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
4. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
6. In a large skillet, cook diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
7. Add shredded chicken to the skillet and stir in taco seasoning. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
9. Assemble tacos with the chicken mixture, and add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Guacamole Stuffed Shredded Chicken Tacos
Get ready to take your taco game to the next level with this flavorful and fun recipe! This unique twist on traditional tacos fills crispy shells with tender, shredded chicken, creamy guacamole, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Shred the chicken and mix with lime juice, garlic, and cilantro.
3. Stuff each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture.
4. Top each taco with shredded cheese and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Meanwhile, mash the avocado and spread on top of each taco.
6. Add your desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your taco game with these 18 flavorful shredded chicken recipes! From classic combos like Spicy Chipotle and Garlic Cilantro, to unique twists like Mango Salsa and Curry Coconut, there’s something for every taste bud. Try adding a hint of smokiness with Smoky Paprika or a tangy kick with Buffalo Ranch. With so many delicious options, you’ll never get tired of shredded chicken tacos again!
