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Crispy Mini Chicken Tacos

Crispy Mini Chicken Tacos
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Crispy mini chicken tacos that deliver a perfectly crunchy bite filled with tender, seasoned chicken and melty cheese, topped with fresh cilantro and lime. Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, these flavorful tacos are ideal for parties, snacks, or family meals, offering a customizable and festive flavor experience.

Ingredients

Primary Ingredients

  • Mini taco shells (small corn or flour) – about 12 shells
  • Chicken breasts or thighs – 1 lb, diced
  • Olive oil or cooking spray – 2 tablespoons
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or preferred melting cheese) – 1 cup
  • Fresh cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Lime wedges – for serving, 1 lime cut into wedges

Spices and Seasonings

  • Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Ground cumin – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt – 1/2 teaspoon or to taste
  • Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon or to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Dice chicken breasts or thighs into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Season thoroughly with chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to build a flavorful base.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until fully cooked and golden brown, stirring occasionally to develop a nice sear while keeping the pieces juicy inside.
  3. Crisp the Mini Taco Shells: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush or spray mini taco shells with olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy and slightly golden.
  4. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warm, crispy shell with a spoonful of cooked chicken. Top with shredded cheese and return to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes to melt the cheese perfectly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove tacos from oven, garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal crunch and fresh flavors.

Notes

  • Cut chicken into even pieces for quick and uniform cooking.
  • Always preheat the oven fully before crisping shells for the best texture.
  • Do not overfill shells to prevent sogginess.
  • Fresh lime juice adds a bright citrus pop that balances richness.
  • Choose cheeses that melt well, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for creamy topping.
  • Serve chicken hot and taco shells warm to maximize contrast in texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini chicken tacos, crispy tacos, quick chicken tacos, party appetizers, Mexican snacks, bite-sized tacos, gluten-free tacos

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/crispy-mini-chicken-tacos/