Tired of takeout tacos? Craving a delicious, homemade meal that's both quick and satisfying? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe showcases the magic of McCormick chicken taco seasoning, transforming simple ingredients into an explosion of flavor. It's one of those easy recipes that's perfect for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough for a casual dinner party. Get ready to experience the best recipes, homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 packet McCormick Chicken Taco Seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup your favorite salsa (I love a chunky medium!)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your taco chicken.
Step 2: Season and Simmer the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Pour in the water and stir in the McCormick Chicken Taco Seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid has slightly reduced. This slow simmering ensures the chicken is tender and fully infused with the amazing taco seasoning.
Step 3: Add Beans, Corn, and Salsa
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the black beans, corn, and salsa. Gently heat through for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This is where your quick dinner idea transforms into a delicious dish!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your flavorful chicken taco filling in warm tortillas, bowls, or over rice. Top with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. This is a simple yet satisfying healthy meal, perfect for any occasion!
Cooking Tips for Taco Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of taco seasoning. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping! Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Variations:
- Beef Tacos: Substitute the chicken with 1.5 lbs of ground beef. Brown the beef before adding the other ingredients.
- Vegetarian Tacos: Omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spicy Tacos: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the skillet along with the onion and garlic for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 350-400 (depending on toppings and serving size)
- Protein: Around 30g
- Fat: Around 10g
- Carbohydrates: Around 35g
This recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and flavorful seasonings. Enjoy your homemade taco feast! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste. Consider it one of your new best recipes!