Shredded Chicken Street Tacos

Name: Shredded Chicken Street Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 c shredded chicken; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 c water; 12 soft street taco shells; 1 c lettuce (shredded); 1 c cheddar cheese; 1 c tomato (diced (optional))

Jump to Recipe

Turn leftover chicken into a fiesta of flavor with these quick and easy street tacos! Perfect for busy weeknights, this customizable recipe delivers a hearty, delicious meal in just 15 minutes.

shredded chicken taco with cheese on top

Table of Contents

Chef’s Tips

Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Grab a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time while keeping the flavor.
Prep Toppings in Advance: Chop and prepare your toppings beforehand for even faster assembly.
Warm the Tortillas: Lightly toast or warm the tortillas on a skillet for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie, baked, poached, or crockpot chicken.
1 tsp Cumin: Adds warm, earthy flavor.
1 tsp Chili Powder: For a smoky kick.
½ tsp Onion Powder: Subtle sweetness.
¼ cup Water: Keeps the chicken moist and helps blend the spices.
12 Soft Street Taco Shells: Corn or flour, as per your preference.
1 cup Lettuce: Shredded for a crisp topping.
1 cup Cheddar Cheese: Shredded, or try a Mexican blend.
1 cup Tomatoes (Optional): Diced for freshness.

Optional Toppings

Creamy Additions: Sour cream or guacamole.
Spicy Kick: Jalapeños, salsa, or hot sauce.
Zesty Finish: Lime wedges for a citrusy punch.
Avocado Slices: For creaminess and flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken
- In a medium skillet, combine the shredded chicken, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, and water.
- Stir to coat the chicken evenly and heat over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring often.
Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the taco shells in a skillet or microwave until warm and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos
- Fill each taco shell with seasoned chicken, shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes if desired.
Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or lime juice. Serve immediately.

chicken and seasoning in a frying pan cooking

tacos on a taco holder getting filling and toppings added

Serving Suggestions

Burrito Bowls: Use the seasoned chicken as a base for rice bowls topped with beans, corn, and guacamole.
Chips & Dip: Pair with tortilla chips, fresh salsa, or creamy queso.
Salad Alternative: Skip the shells and turn this into a chicken taco salad!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! Boil frozen chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C, then shred.

Are chicken tacos healthier than beef tacos?

Yes, using chicken breast keeps the fat content lower while still providing a protein-packed meal.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the seasoned chicken in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

overhead view of a street taco filled with chicken and cheese

Whether you’re feeding a busy family or hosting a casual dinner, these shredded chicken street tacos are a crowd-pleaser. Quick to make and easy to customize, they’re the perfect solution for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. Give them a try, you might find they become a regular in your meal rotation!