Craving chicken tacos? learn the quick and easy way to make them with chicken tenderloins
What To Know
- Warm the tortillas in a microwave or on a griddle.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the tacos for a creamy touch.
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of homemade chicken tacos, crafted with the succulent tenderness of chicken tenderloins. This culinary journey will guide you through every step, from marinating the chicken to assembling the perfect taco.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Tacos:
- 12 corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken tenderloins for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks or a meat shredder.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Warm the tortillas in a microwave or on a griddle. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Top with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tacos:
- Use fresh chicken tenderloins: This ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken tenderloins helps tenderize them and infuse them with flavor.
- Grill the chicken over medium heat: This prevents the chicken from burning and ensures it cooks evenly.
- Shred the chicken thoroughly: This helps distribute the flavor and makes the tacos easier to eat.
- Experiment with toppings: Add your favorite toppings to customize the tacos to your taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Tacos: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or Sriracha to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Chicken Tacos: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the tacos for a creamy touch.
- Veggie Chicken Tacos: Use grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, instead of chicken.
How to Make Chicken Tacos with Chicken Tenderloins: Wrapping Up
With these simple steps and tips, you can effortlessly craft tantalizing chicken tacos that will delight your taste buds. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own unique taco masterpieces.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?
A: Yes, you can. However, chicken breasts may be slightly drier than tenderloins.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to overnight. Longer marinating time will result in more flavorful chicken.
Q: Can I make the tacos ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the tacos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. Reheat the tacos in the microwave or oven before serving.