Here’s a fresh twist on smashed tacos inspired by the bold flavors of Asian dumplings. While traditional recipes often use pork, we’re swapping in lean ground chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. This recipe packs vibrant, exciting flavors that make meal prep anything but boring.
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Calories: 410kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 98mg | Sodium: 1854mg | Potassium: 786mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 127IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 125mg | Iron: 4mg
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Meal Prep:
- The ground chicken mixture can be made in bulk ahead of time and portioned out for quick assembly.
- Cooking the tacos in a skillet is fast, so you can whip up a batch in under 20 minutes.
- These tacos hold up well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, keeping their crispy texture with a quick skillet refresh or microwave zap.
- The bold Asian flavors keep your taste buds excited throughout the week, making meal prep feel less like a chore.
- It’s a complete meal in a handheld package, perfect for busy lunches or dinners on the go.
- You can easily swap toppings to keep things fresh and customize it to your dietary preferences.
- Using simple, wholesome ingredients means you’re eating cleaner without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Ground Chicken: A lean and tender protein that soaks up flavors easily and keeps the tacos light yet satisfying.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the chicken mixture together, ensuring it stays intact when smashed and cooked on the tortilla.
- Ginger Paste: Adds a fresh, zesty warmth that brightens the overall flavor and complements the savory notes.
- Garlic Paste: Brings a rich, aromatic depth that enhances the umami of the dish.
- Sesame Oil: Provides a nutty, toasted aroma that is signature to many Asian-inspired dishes and ties the flavors together.
- Chopped Green Onions: Adds a mild sharpness and subtle crunch, giving the chicken mixture texture and freshness.
- Soy Sauce: Delivers salty, savory umami that deepens the taste and balances the sweetness from the hoisin glaze.
- Fish Sauce: Adds a complex, slightly funky umami boost that intensifies the overall flavor profile without overpowering.
- Tortillas: Serve as the crispy, handheld base that contrasts perfectly with the juicy chicken and keeps the meal portable and fun.
- Hoisin Glaze: Offers a sweet, tangy finishing touch that complements the savory chicken and adds a glossy, flavorful layer.
How to Meal Prep Smash Chicken Tacos:
- Mix it Up: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, ginger paste, garlic paste, sesame oil, green onions, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Mix thoroughly until everything is well blended and your kitchen is already smelling amazing.
- Prep Your Tortillas: Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Evenly scoop about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla. Now here’s the fun part: flatten the chicken gently with your hands or a measuring cup, spreading it evenly over the tortilla. Pro tip: rub a little oil on your hands or the measuring cup to keep the mixture from sticking.
- Sizzle and Smash: Heat a large skillet over high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Carefully place each tortilla in the pan, chicken mixture side down. Use a spatula to press down firmly so you get that crispy, golden crust (cook for about 3 to 4 minutes).
- Flip and Finish: Flip your tacos and cook the tortilla side until it’s golden and crispy, about 1 to 2 more minutes.
- Glaze and Garnish: Spread 1 teaspoon of hoisin glaze over the cooked chicken on each taco. Top with your favorite toppings—I love pairing these with Kimchi Style Sautéed Cabbage for that extra zing and crunch.
Meal Prep Pairing Tips:
- Sautéed or Steamed Greens: Bok choy, spinach, or kale provide a nutritious, fresh side that complements the rich flavors.
- Cucumber or Carrot Slaw: Light and refreshing, these add crisp texture and a cooling contrast.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, Thai basil, or mint boost freshness and enhance the Asian-inspired profile.
- Chili Sauce or Sriracha: For those who love heat, a drizzle adds a spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
- Edamame: Add extra plant protein and variety to your meal prep lineup for a fuller, more satisfying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other proteins instead of ground chicken?
Yes! Ground pork, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives work well and keep the flavor profile tasty.
How can I reheat these tacos without losing the crispiness?
Reheat them in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side rather than the microwave to keep them crispy.
What size tortillas work best for this recipe?
Mini or small tortillas work best to keep the tacos handheld and allow for a good balance between filling and wrap.
Smash Chicken Dumpling Tacos
Equipment
Ingredients
Ground Chicken Mixture
Other ingredients
Instructions
Video
Notes
Nutrition