Print

Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the can)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: Diced red onion, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, and crumbled cotija cheese

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
  2. Step 2: Brown the Chicken Season your chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Move the onions to the side of the pan and add the chicken. Sear the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
  3. Step 3: Simmer in Chipotle Sauce Stir in the minced chipotle peppers, the adobo sauce, and the chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes. This ensures the chicken stays moist while soaking up all the smoky spices.
  4. Step 4: Shred and Combine Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and toss it with the remaining sauce. Stir in the fresh lime juice and let it cook uncovered for 2 more minutes to thicken the sauce.
  5. Step 5: Warm the Tortillas While the chicken finishes, warm your tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds to get a nice char. Keep them wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to stay soft and warm.