Global Mexican Chicken Tacos

Name: Global Mexican Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup diced onions; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 avocado, sliced; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Global Mexican Chicken Tacos for a quick yet flavorful meal. These delicious tacos are brimming with seasoned chicken, colorful veggies, and fresh toppings that create a delightful explosion of textures and tastes. The ease of preparation allows me to whip them up on busy weeknights while impressing friends and family during gatherings. Whether I'm enjoying them solo or sharing a platter with loved ones, these tacos have become a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a favorite for you too!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T19:45:27.582Z

When I first tried this Global Mexican Chicken Taco recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a vibrant dish. The secret lies in the spice blend I use, which perfectly complements the tender chicken and crispy vegetables. After several iterations, I've found that marinating the chicken briefly boosts the flavor, making each bite unforgettable.

One of my favorite aspects of these tacos is the versatility in toppings. I usually prepare a mix of fresh guacamole and pico de gallo to add brightness. Experimenting with different combinations keeps the dish exciting, and every meal becomes a culinary adventure.

        Reasons You'll Love These Tacos
        Bursting with authentic Mexican flavors from spices and fresh ingredients
Quick and easy to make, perfect for both busy weeknights and festive occasions
Customizable with your choice of toppings to suit everyone’s taste

      

Perfecting the Chicken

The secret to juicy and flavorful chicken in these tacos lies in the marination process. By allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes—though up to 2 hours would be even better—you give the spices time to penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor. Use a resealable bag to mix the chicken and marinade; this also helps distribute the seasoning evenly without fuss. Ensure that the chicken is diced uniformly to promote even cooking and tenderness.

When cooking the chicken, it's crucial to monitor the heat. Medium heat is ideal for nicely browning the chicken while keeping it tender. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming rather than browning, so if you're making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and no longer shows pink juices.

Tortillas and Assembly Tips

Warming the corn tortillas beforehand not only makes them pliable but also enhances their flavor. If you have a comal or tortilla warmer, use it for an even better result. On the stove, warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they’re soft with slightly charred edges. This slight charring adds a smokiness that complements the seasoned chicken beautifully. Avoid overheating them, or they can become too crispy and crack when filled.

When assembling the tacos, layer your ingredients strategically. Start with a generous scoop of the chicken to ensure a flavorful base. Follow with vegetables like diced tomatoes and lettuce for crunch, then sprinkle with onions and cilantro for freshness. Don’t forget the avocado slices; their creaminess provides a delightful contrast to the spices. For an extra dash of flavor, consider a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced onions
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Steps to Make

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until fully cooked and browned.

Prepare the Tortillas

While the chicken is cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft and pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with a portion of the cooked chicken, then top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, onions, and cilantro. Add avocado slices on top.

Serve

Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Enjoy Your Tacos!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some shredded cheese or spicy salsa as toppings. These tacos pair wonderfully with a cold beverage, whether it's horchata or a fresh margarita.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These tacos are great for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply place it in an airtight container. If you have leftover cooked chicken, it can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

For a longer storage solution, you can freeze the marinated chicken. Portion it into freezer bags and freeze flat, allowing for easy thawing. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then cook as directed. Just note that the texture may change slightly, but it will still provide a delicious, satisfying meal.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe uses chicken breast for lean protein, you can easily substitute it with chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit as a filling; both offer a meaty texture that pairs well with the spices.

Don't hesitate to experiment with toppings! Try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, or pickled jalapeños for a kick. For a fresh twist, consider topping with mango salsa or a corn and black bean salad. Each variation can elevate your taco experience, making it fun to recreate your own favorite version.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, pork, or even shrimp.

→ How can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and beans for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or even overnight for deeper flavors.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love using pico de gallo, shredded cheese, guacamole, and fresh cilantro for the best flavor combination.