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Quick Weeknight Shredded Chicken Tacos

Close-up of three soft shell chicken tacos filled with shredded seasoned chicken, topped with diced white onion and cilantro.

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Make these easy chicken tacos on the stovetop for a fast, flavorful dinner. The chicken shreds perfectly and stays juicy, making this a great recipe for busy weeknights or family taco night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 12 corn or flour tortillas
  • Toppings: chopped cilantro, diced white onion, lime wedges, salsa

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
  5. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let the chicken simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken completely.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the chicken and stir well to coat everything in the remaining liquid. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Warm your tortillas according to package directions.
  9. Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken taco filling. Top with cilantro, onion, salsa, and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

  • You can use this shredded chicken filling for bowls or nachos later in the week.
  • For extra flavor, substitute half the water with lime juice.
  • If you prefer a slower method, this filling works well in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours.

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