Craving a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! These BBQ Chicken Tacos are the perfect solution. They're quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and customizable to your liking. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you whipping up a taco feast in a flash. Get ready for a taste explosion that'll leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients:
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For the BBQ Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (we love a smoky variety!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Tacos:
- 12 corn or flour tortillas
- Your favorite taco toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, cilantro
Instructions:
Preparing the BBQ Chicken:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly.
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Bake: Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Shred and sauce: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Stir in the BBQ sauce until the chicken is well coated.
Assembling the Tacos:
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Warm the tortillas: You can warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.
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Fill and top: Fill each tortilla with the shredded BBQ chicken and your favorite toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ chicken for extra heat.
- Grill it: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of baking it.
- Slow cooker option: Place the chicken and BBQ sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it a bowl: Skip the tortillas and serve the BBQ chicken over rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like pickled jalapeños, mango salsa, or crumbled cotija cheese.
Nutritional Information (per taco, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-400 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
These BBQ Chicken Tacos are a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends and family. The recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your own signature BBQ chicken taco masterpiece! Enjoy!