Welcome to our delicious taco recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a mouthwatering recipe for Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos with Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa. These tacos are packed with flavorful chicken thighs, roasted poblanos, and a zesty avocado-jalapeño salsa. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day you crave something delicious. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tacos:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped (leaves & stems)
- 2 poblano peppers, deseeded and diced
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
- 6-8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey jack cheese
- Shredded lettuce, for serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
For the Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded and chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Poblanos and Onion
- Cook Poblano and Onion: In the same skillet, add the diced poblano peppers and sliced onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa
- Mash Avocado: In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until smooth but still chunky.
- Mix Salsa: Add the chopped jalapeño, minced garlic, lime juice, and chopped cilantro to the mashed avocado. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are pliable and slightly charred.
- Assemble Tacos: Place a few slices of cooked chicken on each tortilla, followed by the sautéed poblano peppers and onions. Sprinkle shredded Monterey jack cheese over the top.
- Add Toppings: Top with shredded lettuce and a generous spoonful of avocado-jalapeño salsa.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your crispy poblano chicken tacos with avocado-jalapeño salsa!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer.
- Tortillas: For extra crispy tacos, you can lightly fry the tortillas in a bit of oil before assembling.
- Heat Level: Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños to the salsa.
Variations
Spicy Poblano Chicken Tacos
Add 1-2 chopped serrano peppers to the chicken seasoning for an extra spicy kick.
Veggie Poblano Tacos
Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Cheesy Poblano Tacos
Add a layer of queso fresco or cotija cheese in addition to the Monterey jack cheese.
Citrus Poblano Tacos
Add a splash of orange juice to the chicken marinade for a hint of citrus flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the salsa ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook and assemble.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken, poblanos, and salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and poblanos in a skillet before assembling the tacos.
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Warm them in the same way as corn tortillas.
What can I serve with these tacos?
These tacos pair well with Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple green salad.
How can I make the tacos more flavorful?
For extra flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and extra cilantro on top before serving.
Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos with Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa are a delicious and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With flavorful chicken, roasted poblanos, and a zesty salsa, these tacos are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your family and friends!
