Are you searching for a recipe that combines the comforting flavors of tacos with the fresh zing of chimichurri? Look no further than these Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce. This recipe delivers a delightful blend of savory, tangy, and creamy tastes, making it an ideal choice for any taco night or casual gathering. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
For the Shredded Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
For the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for creaminess)
For Assembly:
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado
- Lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Shredded Chicken:
- In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the remaining juices.
- Make the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
- In a food processor, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Add the sour cream and pulse until the sauce is creamy and well mixed. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Spread a generous amount of shredded chicken onto each tortilla.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado.
- Drizzle with the creamy chimichurri sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Preparation: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices overnight before cooking.
- Chimichurri Sauce: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables.
- Tortilla Options: Use your preferred tortilla type, whether it’s corn for a more authentic Mexican touch or flour for a softer, more pliable option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce offer a unique twist on traditional tacos. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken with the vibrant and creamy chimichurri sauce creates a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress.
Serving and Storage Tips for Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce
Serving Tips:
- Taco Presentation:
- Warm Tortillas: Heat the tortillas just before serving to make them soft and pliable. You can warm them in a dry skillet, on a griddle, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel.
- Garnishes: Offer a variety of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro. This allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness. A squeeze of lime over the tacos enhances the flavors of the chicken and chimichurri sauce.
- Pairing Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve these tacos with side dishes like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.
- Drinks: Complement the meal with refreshing beverages such as a light Mexican beer, iced tea, or a non-alcoholic drink like a citrusy limeade.
- Taco Bar Style:
- DIY Setup: For a fun and interactive meal, set up a taco bar with all the toppings and sauces on the side. This allows guests to build their own tacos according to their preferences.
Storage Tips:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Shredded Chicken: Store leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Chimichurri Sauce: The creamy chimichurri sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It may thicken slightly over time; just give it a good stir before using.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Chicken: Reheat the shredded chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Tortillas: Warm leftover tortillas in a skillet or microwave, covering them with a damp cloth to keep them from drying out.
- Freezing Tips:
- Shredded Chicken: If freezing, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.
- Chimichurri Sauce: To freeze the sauce, pour it into ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Following these serving and storage tips will help you enjoy your Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or enjoying leftovers.
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and slightly juicier, making them a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs might take a bit longer to become tender.
2. Can I make the creamy chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The creamy chimichurri sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This can save you time when preparing your meal and allows the flavors to meld even more.
3. What can I use instead of sour cream in the chimichurri sauce?
If you prefer not to use sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, you could use heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, depending on your dietary preferences.
4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use gluten-free tortillas. Many stores offer a variety of gluten-free options. Additionally, double-check that the spices and chicken broth you use are certified gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten sources.