Hello there, food lovers! If you’re in the mood for something crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that will take your taco nights to the next level—Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese. These tacos are the perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, packed with flavor and easy to prepare. So, grab your tortillas and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering tacos that your family and friends will absolutely love!
Introduction
Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos are a delightful fusion of texture and taste, making them a hit for any taco night. Originating from the heart of Mexican cuisine, these tacos combine the warmth of shredded chicken seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, perfectly complemented by melted Monterey Jack cheese inside crispy corn tortillas. This dish brings comfort and flavor together, creating an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.
I first tried these tacos at a small, bustling taqueria while traveling, and I was instantly hooked. The crispy shell, the tender chicken, and the gooey cheese made every bite a pleasure. Since then, I’ve recreated the recipe at home, tweaking it until I perfected this version. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a special treat, but it’s surprisingly simple to make!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 ½ cups shredded chicken
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (optional, for a little spice)
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 corn tortillas
- 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese
- Toppings: hot sauce, guacamole, salsa, pickled onions, sour cream, lime wedge
Feel free to swap out the cheese for a dairy-free option or use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience, making this recipe even quicker to put together!
How to Make Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F to ensure it’s hot and ready to crisp up those tacos.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chipotle chili powder (if using), and salsa. Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Warm the Tortillas: Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30-60 seconds until they are pliable. This step makes the tortillas easier to work with and less likely to crack when folded.
- Assemble the Tacos: Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil. On the opposite side, add 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese to one half of the tortilla, followed by ¼ cup of the seasoned chicken mixture. Sprinkle another 2 tablespoons of cheese on top of the chicken, then fold the tortilla over to create a taco.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange the folded tacos in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 16 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides get nice and crispy. Once the tacos are golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven.
- Let the Tacos Rest: Allow the tacos to rest for 3 minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set slightly, making the tacos easier to handle.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy tacos with your favorite toppings like guacamole, hot sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lime!
Helpful Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese turn out perfectly:
- Cheese Choices: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with sharp cheddar or a blend of Mexican cheeses.
- Prevent Soggy Tacos: Be sure not to overfill your tacos with salsa, as too much moisture can make the tortillas soggy before they have a chance to crisp up.
- Crispier Tacos: If you like your tacos extra crispy, you can broil them for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Cooking Tips
To enhance the flavor and texture of your Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos, consider the following tips:
- Using a Cast Iron Skillet: If you prefer not to use the oven, try crisping your tacos in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, pressing down slightly with a spatula to achieve a perfect crisp.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness of your tacos by varying the amount of chipotle chili powder or adding a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
These cooking tips will ensure your tacos are packed with flavor and perfectly crispy every time.
Serving Suggestions
These Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some serving ideas:
- Side Dishes: Serve your tacos with a side of Mexican street corn (elote), a refreshing cucumber salad, or traditional refried beans.
- Beverages: Complement the meal with a refreshing margarita, a glass of horchata, or a cold cerveza (beer) for the ultimate taco experience.
- Presentation: For a colorful presentation, garnish your tacos with pickled onions, fresh cilantro, and a wedge of lime on the side.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is not only delicious but also offers balanced nutrition. Here’s the short nutritional breakdown:
Each serving provides approximately 320 kcal per serving, which includes protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the cheese, and carbohydrates from the corn tortillas.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Potassium: 380mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 500 IU
- Vitamin C: 3mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
These tacos offer a good amount of protein and calcium, making them a satisfying and somewhat nutritious indulgence. Plus, by controlling the toppings, you can keep them as light or as hearty as you like.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent sogginess, it’s best to store the filling and tortillas separately if possible.
Reheat: To reheat, place the tacos in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or heat them in a skillet over medium heat until they are warmed through and crispy again.
For a fun twist, you can chop up the leftover tacos and turn them into a taco salad with fresh greens, avocado, and a light dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can substitute flour tortillas for corn tortillas, but keep in mind that flour tortillas may not crisp up as much as corn tortillas when baked. - Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake the tacos just before serving for the best results. - What’s the best way to add extra spice?
If you like your tacos extra spicy, you can increase the chipotle chili powder or drizzle some hot sauce directly on the filling before baking.
Related Recipes
Looking for more delicious recipes like these Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese? Check out these related recipes:
These dishes are perfect for adding variety to your meal planning!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making and eating these Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese as much as I do! Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun taco night with friends, these tacos are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, tips, and any creative variations you’ve tried in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own!
Enjoy, and happy cooking! ????
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Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese
Description
Hello there, food lovers! If you’re in the mood for something crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that will take your taco nights to the next level—Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese. These tacos are the perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, packed with flavor and easy to prepare. So, grab your tortillas and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering tacos that your family and friends will absolutely love!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups shredded chicken
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (optional, for a little spice)
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 corn tortillas
- 2.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese
- Toppings: hot sauce, guacamole, salsa, pickled onions, sour cream, lime wedge
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F to ensure it’s hot and ready to crisp up those tacos.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chipotle chili powder (if using), and salsa. Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Warm the Tortillas: Wrap the corn tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30-60 seconds until they are pliable. This step makes the tortillas easier to work with and less likely to crack when folded.
- Assemble the Tacos: Brush one side of each tortilla with olive oil. On the opposite side, add 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese to one half of the tortilla, followed by ¼ cup of the seasoned chicken mixture. Sprinkle another 2 tablespoons of cheese on top of the chicken, then fold the tortilla over to create a taco.
- Bake to Perfection: Arrange the folded tacos in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 16 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides get nice and crispy. Once the tacos are golden brown and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven.
- Let the Tacos Rest: Allow the tacos to rest for 3 minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set slightly, making the tacos easier to handle.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Golden Crispy Shredded Chicken Tacos with Monterey Jack Cheese turn out perfectly:
- Cheese Choices: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with sharp cheddar or a blend of Mexican cheeses.
- Prevent Soggy Tacos: Be sure not to overfill your tacos with salsa, as too much moisture can make the tortillas soggy before they have a chance to crisp up.
- Crispier Tacos: If you like your tacos extra crispy, you can broil them for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
