Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these mind-blowing Baked Chicken Tacos that promise to take your culinary game to the next level! Imagine crispy taco shells packed with perfectly seasoned ground chicken, melted cheese, and topped with a creamy cilantro sauce that will make your mouth water instantly. Whether you're a taco lover or just looking to spice up your meal prep, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 12 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your taco shells will be crispy and the cheese will melt perfectly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground chicken. Use a spatula to break the chicken apart as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Once the chicken is cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken and mix well. Add a splash of water (about 2-3 tablespoons) to help the seasoning adhere to the chicken. Stir and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is well coated and heated through.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the creamy cilantro sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.
- Once the chicken is ready, take the taco shells and place them in a baking dish. Fill each taco shell generously with the seasoned ground chicken.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the filled taco shells. Make sure each taco has a good amount of cheese for that delicious melty texture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the taco shells are slightly crispy.
- Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let the tacos cool for a few minutes before serving.
- To serve, drizzle the creamy cilantro sauce over the baked tacos or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious baked chicken tacos with creamy cilantro sauce!
Tips
- Meat Mastery: For the most flavorful chicken, make sure to break down the ground chicken into small, even pieces while cooking. This ensures every bite is packed with seasoning.
- Cheese Hack: Use a blend of cheeses for extra depth of flavor. Try mixing cheddar with monterey jack for a more complex taste.
- Sauce Preparation: Make the cilantro sauce ahead of time and refrigerate. The flavors will meld together, creating an even more delicious dressing.
- Crispy Shell Trick: For extra crispy taco shells, lightly brush them with olive oil before filling and baking.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to add extra toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or chopped green onions to personalize your tacos.
- Meal Prep Magic: These tacos are perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and assemble just before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
