Crispy chipotle chicken tacos served with fresh toppings on a plate

Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. They combine crispy tacos with spicy, flavorful chicken and a creamy avocado ranch sauce. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even just a quick weeknight meal. The rich flavors, along with the fresh ingredients, make it an irresistible choice that will please both adults and kids alike.

how to make Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Ingredients:

  • 1 avocado
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb. ground chicken
  • 1 chipotle chile in adobo sauce, chopped, plus 2 tbsp. adobo sauce
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. cumin
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar, divided
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for serving

Directions:

Avocado Ranch Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, puree the avocado, jalapeno, garlic, cilantro, buttermilk, sour cream, and lime juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. You can make this sauce 3 days ahead and keep it in the fridge.

Tacos:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it’s no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Stir in the chipotle chile, adobo sauce, chili powder, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the skillet from heat.

In a small nonstick skillet over medium heat, arrange about 1/4 cup of cheese in a circle, forming a layer the size of your tortillas. Place a tortilla on top of the cheese. Spoon some of the chicken filling on one half of the tortilla and top it with about 2 tablespoons of cheese on the other half. Cook until the cheese starts to crisp, about 4 minutes. Use a rubber spatula to fold the side with cheese over the chicken, pressing to keep the taco closed. Cook for another minute, then flip it and warm the other side for about 1 more minute. Transfer the taco to a plate and repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Top the tacos with fresh cilantro and serve with the avocado ranch sauce on the side.

how to serve Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Serve the tacos hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair them with the homemade avocado ranch sauce for a creamy and flavorful dip. You can also add extra toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or lime wedges to enhance your tacos.

how to store Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos

If you have leftovers, store the chicken filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the tortillas separate so they stay crispy. The avocado ranch sauce can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

tips to make Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos

  • For added crunch, consider toasting the tortillas slightly before assembling your tacos.
  • If you want a milder flavor, you can use less chipotle or omit the jalapeno in the avocado ranch sauce.
  • Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences—sliced radishes, shredded cheese, or diced onions make great additions.

variation

You can easily switch up the protein by using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, consider using black beans or lentils in place of the chicken.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the avocado ranch sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the sauce up to 3 days ahead of time and keep it refrigerated.

Q: How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?
A: Make sure to heat the tortillas slightly before filling them to help make them more pliable.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken filling?
A: Yes! The chicken filling can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.