Print

Quick Weeknight Shredded Chicken Tacos

Three crispy shell chicken tacos filled with saucy shredded chicken, topped with diced white onion and fresh cilantro.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make these easy chicken tacos fast for a flavorful weeknight dinner. This recipe delivers juicy, shredded chicken filling using a simple stovetop method, perfect for taco night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Toppings: chopped onion, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken.
  4. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them on a cutting board. Reserve the cooking liquid in the skillet.
  6. Use two forks to shred the chicken completely.
  7. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the cooking liquid. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly with the seasoned sauce. Cook uncovered for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken well. This creates your juicy chicken taco filling.
  8. Warm your tortillas according to package directions (you can warm them briefly in a dry skillet or microwave).
  9. Assemble your chicken tacos by filling each warm tortilla with the seasoned shredded chicken. Top with your favorite fresh toppings like onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

  • For a spicier flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • If you prefer slow cooker chicken tacos, place the chicken, broth, water, and seasoning in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, then shred and mix with the sauce.
  • Make ahead chicken taco filling stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition