Description
These Shredded Chicken Tacos are bursting with bold flavors and topped with a tangy, herbaceous creamy chimichurri sauce. Juicy, spiced chicken pairs perfectly with fresh taco toppings for a quick, easy, and satisfying meal. Perfect for Taco Tuesdays or any night of the week!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Shredded Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
For the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley (packed)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (packed)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or shredded cheese of choice)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
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Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker or instant pot. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken broth or water, cover, and cook on high for 2-3 hours (or low for 4-5 hours in a slow cooker). For the Instant Pot, use the “Poultry” setting or pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Toss the shredded chicken in the cooking juices for extra flavor.
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Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
- In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pulse until finely chopped.
- Slowly add the olive oil while blending until a smooth consistency forms.
- Stir in mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to make the sauce creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, a drizzle of creamy chimichurri sauce, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled queso fresco.
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Serve:
- Serve immediately with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Add avocado slices or pickled onions for extra toppings.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The chimichurri sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.