When the sun sets and the week starts to feel long, I crave something fresh and vibrant to bring a little excitement back into dinner. That’s when these Chicken Chimichurri Tacos come to the rescue—bursting with flavor and packed with color, they are the ultimate solution to the infamous taco night dilemma! Picture this: warm corn tortillas cradling tender, shredded chicken, all topped with a zippy chimichurri sauce that elevates each bite to perfection.
I stumbled upon this recipe during my quest for simple yet satisfying meals that reflect the freshness of homemade cooking, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s not just about the delightful taste; it’s also about the quick preparation—ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress at a casual dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, these tacos will easily sway you away from fast food. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Chimichurri Tacos
- These Chicken Chimichurri Tacos are not only incredibly easy to make but also come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- The vibrant flavors of the chimichurri sauce coupled with tender chicken create a dish that will excite your taste buds.
- You can easily customize these tacos with your favorite toppings, making them versatile enough for everyone in the family.
- Plus, their colorful presentation is sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal into a special occasion.
Chicken Chimichurri Tacos Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor explosion!
For the Tacos
• Cooked chicken – use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
• Corn tortillas – warm them up for better pliability and flavor.
For the Toppings
• Chimichurri sauce – this vibrant sauce is the star, adding freshness to the Chicken Chimichurri Tacos.
• Diced tomatoes – they provide a juicy burst that complements the dish perfectly.
• Diced red onion – add sharpness and color, enhancing the taco experience.
• Avocado – creamy slices bring richness and balance to the flavors.
• Lime wedges – a squeeze of lime adds the perfect zesty kick to your tacos.
How to Make Chicken Chimichurri Tacos
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Warm the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side. This helps make them soft and pliable, perfect for holding your delicious fillings.
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Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of shredded chicken. Gently spread the chicken to one side of the tortilla, leaving room for fillings to come!
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Top each taco generously with chimichurri sauce. This zesty sauce should cascade over the chicken, infusing it with vibrant flavors that you won’t want to miss.
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Add diced tomatoes and red onion over the top for a fresh crunch. The tomatoes will add juiciness, while the onions contribute a lovely bite that complements the other flavors.
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Garnish with avocado slices for creaminess that balances out the bright, zesty flavors of the tacos. Arrange the slices neatly for an eye-catching presentation!
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Serve with lime wedges on the side, inviting everyone to add an extra squeeze of zest right before taking a delightful bite.
Optional: Serve with your favorite hot sauce for an added kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Chimichurri Tacos Variations
Embrace your inner chef and make these tacos uniquely yours with your favorite twists!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chimichurri sauce for an extra kick. Bring the heat to life in every delightful bite.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for grilled zucchini or mushrooms to create a hearty veggie version bursting with flavor. Perfect for meatless Mondays or any day of the week.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing any flavor or texture. Enjoying tacos just got even easier!
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Herb Infusion: Try different herbs in your chimichurri, such as cilantro or parsley, for a new flavor profile that will keep everyone guessing. Each variation invites a fresh zing to your dinner table.
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Creamy Addition: Incorporate sour cream or Greek yogurt drizzled over the tacos for a cool, creamy contrast to the chimichurri’s zest. This juxtaposition creates a balanced flavor experience.
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Tropical Breeze: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist that complements the zingy chimichurri beautifully. The tropical fruit brings a refreshing vibe to your tacos.
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Savory Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta or queso fresco over the top before serving for a salty bite that enhances the overall dish. This addition takes your tacos to a whole new level of deliciousness.
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Pickled Crunch: Top with pickled red onions or jalapeños for a tangy crunch that elevates the flavor and adds an exciting texture. This quick addition brightens up every taco!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chimichurri Tacos
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Chicken Chimichurri Tacos at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain their freshness and avoid spoilage.
Fridge: Keep these tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap the tortillas separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded chicken and chimichurri sauce separately in airtight bags for up to 2 months. Assemble the tacos fresh when ready to enjoy!
Reheating: Reheat the shredded chicken in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Warm the tortillas again briefly before assembling.
What to Serve with Chicken Chimichurri Tacos?
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that complement the vibrant flavors of your tacos, ensuring a meal everyone will love.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the zesty experience of your tacos.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn is the perfect companion, providing a delightful crunch with every bite.
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Black Bean Salad: Bursting with flavor and protein, black bean salad adds a satisfying texture while staying healthy and colorful.
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Chilled Avocado Soup: This creamy soup offers a cooling effect after a bite of spicy tacos, creating a harmonious balance.
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Fresh Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy salsa brightens the plate, bringing a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the chimichurri.
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Nachos with Queso Dip: Indulge in crispy nachos topped with gooey cheese for a fun appetizer before diving into your delicious tacos.
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Pineapple Margarita: This vibrant cocktail’s balance of sweetness and tartness complements the flavors of your meal, making it the ideal beverage choice.
Each pairing will elevate your Chicken Chimichurri Tacos into a full culinary fiesta, leaving everyone wanting more!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chimichurri Tacos are a meal prep dream come true! You can effortlessly prepare the chicken and chimichurri sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, chop the tomatoes and red onion a day ahead to save even more time. When it’s time to serve, simply warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave, fill them with the chicken, and top off with chimichurri and fresh veggies. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, fresh tacos that taste just as vibrant, all while reclaiming precious time during your busy evenings!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Chicken Chimichurri Tacos, ensure your tortillas are warmed properly to enhance their texture and prevent cracking when filled.
- If using rotisserie chicken, shred it just before assembling to keep it moist and flavorful.
- When layering your toppings, consider adding the chimichurri sauce first to allow it to infuse flavors into the chicken before piling on the vegetables.
- A quick squeeze of lime just before serving elevates the overall taste, ensuring a zesty, refreshing bite.
Chicken Chimichurri Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for Chicken Chimichurri Tacos?
Absolutely! I often use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option. You can also use grilled or poached chicken breast if you prefer a healthier choice. Just make sure it’s cooked through, seasoned lightly, and shredded for easy assembly!
How can I store leftover Chicken Chimichurri Tacos?
You can store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the tortillas and fillings separate to prevent sogginess. Wrap the tortillas in foil or plastic wrap to maintain their texture.
Can I freeze Chicken Chimichurri Tacos?
Yes! The shredded chicken and chimichurri sauce can be frozen separately in airtight bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reassemble, warm the tortillas and add the chicken with your desired toppings!
What should I do if my tortillas crack while warming?
Very! If your tortillas crack, it may be that they were either too dry or heated too long. To prevent this, try warming them on medium heat just long enough until they are pliable, about 1-2 minutes per side. If you have leftover tortillas from previous meals, moisten them lightly with a damp paper towel before warming.
Are Chicken Chimichurri Tacos suitable for people with allergies?
It depends! The primary ingredients in Chicken Chimichurri Tacos are chicken, corn tortillas, and toppings. For gluten-free options, look for corn tortillas labeled as such. If you have allergies to ingredients like avocado or onions, feel free to substitute with your preferred toppings, like shredded lettuce or diced bell peppers, to keep it safe and delicious!
Equipment
- skillet
- Airtight container
Ingredients
For the Tacos
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken quick option
- 8 pieces corn tortillas warm them up for better pliability
For the Toppings
- 1 cup chimichurri sauce the star of the dish
- 1 cup diced tomatoes provides a juicy burst
- 1/2 cup diced red onion adds sharpness and color
- 1 avocado sliced for richness and balance
- 2 pieces lime wedges for a zesty kick
Instructions
How to Make Chicken Chimichurri Tacos
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Fill each tortilla with about 1/4 cup of shredded chicken.
- Top each taco generously with chimichurri sauce.
- Add diced tomatoes and red onion over the top.
- Garnish with avocado slices.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
