Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate Mexican delight: Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos! These mouthwatering tacos combine tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly crispy coating that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend gathering. Dive into a fiesta of flavors and discover how to elevate your taco game to new heights—your family and friends will be begging for your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Taco shells
- Optional toppings: lettuce, cheese, salsa, avocado
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a crispy coating mixture.
- Pat the shredded chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring the coating will adhere properly.
- Dredge each handful of shredded chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour-cornmeal mixture, ensuring complete and even coating.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, approximately 1/4 inch deep.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, spreading them out to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the exterior becomes golden brown and crispy with a crunchy texture.
- Remove the crispy chicken from the skillet and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Warm the taco shells in the oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to enhance their texture and flavor.
- Fill each taco shell with the crispy shredded chicken and top with optional garnishes like fresh lettuce, shredded cheese, salsa, and diced avocado.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy, ensuring the best flavor and texture for your tacos.
Tips
- Patience is Key: Make sure to dry the shredded chicken thoroughly before coating it. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crunch you crave.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning in the flour-cornmeal mixture. Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat or some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor twist.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not sizzling, your coating may become soggy instead of crispy. A good test is to drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it bubbles vigorously, you’re ready to fry!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Give each piece enough space to crisp up beautifully.
- Warm Taco Shells: Warm your taco shells in the oven for a few minutes before filling them. This simple step enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch that complements the crispy chicken.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your tacos right after assembling. The crispy chicken paired with fresh toppings will create a delightful contrast that you won’t want to miss!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
