Chipotle Chicken Tacos

These chipotle chicken tacos are seriously delicious! They’re loaded with pulled chipotle chicken, homemade guacamole and a spicy tomato salsa. If you’d prefer a veggie option, substitute the chicken for pulled oyster mushrooms – they work beautifully!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Ingredients
• Taco Traditions
• Corn vs. Wheat: A Tale of Two Tortillas
• What’s Tajin?
• Spice Symphony: Chipotle, Cumin, and Paprika
• Make It Veggie
• Tips for Perfect Chipotle Chicken Tacos
• Where to Shop
• More Tacos

Introduction

Chipotle Chicken Tacos are the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and fresh flavours. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs marinated in chipotle paste and spices, served with creamy guacamole and a zesty tomato salsa. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so flavourful and easy to prepare, starting with a breakdown of the ingredients.

Key Ingredients

• Onion: Thinly sliced and roasted to add a sweet, caramelised base to the chicken.
• Garlic: Thinly sliced and roasted alongside the onion for an aromatic depth.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Used to coat the vegetables and chicken, enhancing their flavours during roasting.
• Chipotle Paste: Provides a smoky, spicy kick that defines the flavour of the chicken.
• Ground Cumin: Adds an earthy warmth to the marinade.
• Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smokiness of the chipotle paste and adds a rich colour.
• Tajin or Tajin-Style Seasoning: A tangy, spicy seasoning that gives the chicken a unique zest.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavours of the ingredients.
• Chicken Thigh Fillets: Boneless, skinless thighs that stay juicy and tender when roasted.
• Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, it balances the spiciness of the chicken.
• Vine Tomatoes: Deseeded and used in the salsa for a fresh, juicy texture.
• Red Chilli: Adds heat to the salsa; adjust to taste.
• Red Onion: Provides a sharp bite to the salsa, balancing the other flavours.
• Lime Juice: Adds acidity and brightness to the salsa and guacamole.
• Soft Taco Shells: The vessel for all the delicious fillings; warm them just before serving.
• Crispy Onions: Adds a crunchy texture and savoury finish to the tacos.

Taco Traditions

Tacos have a rich cultural history that dates back to the indigenous peoples of Mexico. They were originally made with soft corn tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients. Over time, tacos have evolved and become a beloved dish worldwide, with countless variations and fillings. In Mexico, tacos are often enjoyed as street food, with vendors serving them fresh and hot, garnished with simple toppings like coriander, onions, and lime.

Corn vs. Wheat: A Tale of Two Tortillas

The choice between corn and wheat tortillas often comes down to personal preference and regional traditions. Corn tortillas, made from masa harina, are the traditional choice in Mexican cuisine. They have a slightly nutty flavour and a chewy texture that pairs well with robust fillings like chipotle chicken. Wheat tortillas, on the other hand, are softer and more pliable, making them easier to wrap around fillings. They are more common in northern Mexico and the United States. Each type brings its own unique qualities to the table, so try both and see which you prefer!

What’s Tajin?

Tajin is a popular Mexican seasoning made from a blend of dried chilies, lime, and salt. It adds a tangy, spicy flavour to anything it touches. In this recipe, Tajin enhances the marinade for the chicken, giving it an extra layer of zest. You can find Tajin in most grocery stores or online, and it’s also great sprinkled on fruits, vegetables, and snacks for a burst of flavour.

Spice Symphony: Chipotle, Cumin, and Paprika

This recipe features a trio of spices that work together to create a deep, complex flavour profile. Chipotle paste brings a smoky heat, characteristic of smoked jalapeños. Ground cumin adds an earthy, warm undertone that complements the chipotle. Smoked paprika not only intensifies the smokiness but also adds a vibrant red hue to the dish. These spices combine to create a rich, aromatic marinade that infuses the chicken with bold, layered flavours.

Make It Veggie

For those looking to enjoy these tacos without meat, oyster mushrooms make a fantastic substitute. Their meaty texture and ability to absorb flavours make them a great alternative to chicken. Simply tear the mushrooms into strips, marinate them in the same chipotle mixture, and roast them until tender. The result is a delicious, vegetarian taco filling that even meat lovers will appreciate.

Tips for Perfect Chipotle Chicken Tacos

• Heat the Tortillas Properly: Warming the tortillas just before serving ensures they are soft and pliable, making them easier to fill and fold.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after roasting makes it easier to shred and helps retain its juices.
• Customise Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favourite toppings, such as shredded lettuce, cheese, or sour cream, to make these tacos your own.
• Make Ahead: Both the chicken and the salsa can be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to assemble the tacos, making this a convenient option for busy days.

Where to Shop

Most of the ingredients for these tacos can be found in regular grocery stores. For specialty items like chipotle paste and Tajin, check the international aisle or visit a Latin American market.

More Tacos

If you love tacos, why not try one of my other taco recipes:

• Crispy Fish Tacos: These Baja-inspired fish tacos are the perfect balance of flavours and textures. They’re loaded with crispy beer-battered fish, a zingy cabbage slaw, sweet and sour pickled chillies and a chipotle crema.
• Braised Pork Belly Tacos: These delicious tacos are loaded with sticky braised Chinese pork belly and a spicy yet creamy Asian-inspired slaw.
• Sticky Chipotle Tofu Tacos: These tasty tacos are packed with a zingy pineapple slaw, crispy air fried tofu, coated in a sticky, smoky glaze, and chipotle crema. Yum!

These Chipotle Chicken Tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that brings the vibrant flavours of Mexican cuisine to your table. So gather your ingredients, warm your tortillas, and get ready to savour every bite of these flavourful tacos!