Description
Welcome to an incredibly delicious and unique recipe for Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Creamy Sesame Cucumbers! If you’re searching for a new twist on traditional tacos, this dish offers a fusion of Asian flavors combined with the Mexican taco experience. The crispy teriyaki chicken, paired with creamy sesame cucumbers, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of dressing, makes it a total flavor explosion that will have you craving more. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Creamy Cucumbers:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili crunch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh herbs, finely minced (cilantro, green onions, and/or mint)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 large English cucumber or 3–4 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
For the Teriyaki Chicken:
- 1lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup + 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
For Serving:
- 8 6-inch flour tortillas, warmed
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortillas and make sure your teriyaki sauce is gluten-free.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh marinated in teriyaki sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken thighs with a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken in an Instant Pot and add 1/3 cup of teriyaki sauce. Toss the chicken to ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Chicken
- Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, let the pot release pressure naturally for a few minutes, or use the quick release option if you’re in a hurry.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cucumbers
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the creamy cucumbers.
- Thinly slice the cucumbers using a mandolin for uniform slices.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, rice vinegar, sweet chili sauce, toasted sesame oil, chili crunch, and salt until well combined.
- Toss the sliced cucumbers and fresh herbs in the dressing. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
Step 4: Shred and Broil the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and shred it using tongs, two forks, or your fingers.
- Place the shredded chicken on a lined baking sheet and preheat your oven to broil.
- Drizzle the chicken with the remaining 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce and 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce.
- Toss the chicken until each piece is coated, then broil for 3-6 minutes until the chicken is crispy and caramelized on the edges.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the flour tortillas over an open flame or in the microwave.
- Layer each tortilla with a generous serving of the crispy teriyaki chicken, a spoonful of creamy cucumber salad, and a few slices of avocado.
- Finish with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts and sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
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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- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions add brightness to the dish.
- Watch the chicken closely while broiling: Since ovens vary, the chicken can go from crispy to burnt very quickly.
- Double the recipe for leftovers: This recipe doubles easily and reheats well for lunch the next day.