Description
Mouthwatering queso chicken tacos deliver a zesty Mexican-inspired feast that combines juicy shredded chicken with creamy melted cheese. Crisp tortillas and bold spices create a quick, irresistible meal you’ll devour with pure culinary excitement.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 1 cup store-bought or homemade queso dip
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
- ½ cup chicken broth
Tortillas and Toppings:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapenos
- Shredded lettuce
- Sour cream
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Position chicken breasts in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, generously coating with taco seasoning and pouring chicken broth over the meat.
- For slow cooker method, allow chicken to simmer on low temperature for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until completely cooked and remarkably tender.
- When using Instant Pot, pressurize for 12 minutes and immediately release pressure after cooking cycle completes.
- Extract chicken from cooking liquid and meticulously shred using two forks, separating meat into delicate strands.
- Return shredded chicken to original cooking vessel, gently mixing with remaining cooking juices to maintain moisture and flavor.
- Incorporate queso dip into shredded chicken, stirring thoroughly to ensure even coating and uniform temperature throughout the mixture.
- Prepare tortillas by warming them briefly in a skillet or microwave to enhance flexibility and texture.
- Construct tacos by layering warm tortillas with seasoned queso chicken, then embellish with preferred garnishes.
- Present tacos immediately, accompanied by fresh lime wedges to provide a zesty, bright citrus accent that complements the rich chicken filling.
Notes
- Opt for lean chicken breasts to reduce fat while maintaining protein content for a healthier meal.
- Select low-sodium taco seasoning to control salt intake and accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Swap dairy queso with plant-based alternatives for vegan or lactose-intolerant individuals, ensuring creamy texture and flavor.
- Consider using whole wheat or corn tortillas for added fiber and nutritional value, making the dish more nutrient-dense.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg