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Smash Chicken Tacos

Tacos are life, right? But who says you need a taco truck to enjoy a delicious, crave-worthy bite? These Smashed Chicken Tacos are the ultimate answer to your weekday meal prep woes. Juicy ground chicken seasoned to perfection, golden tortillas with a crispy sear, and fresh toppings that scream flavor—it’s everything you love about tacos, minus the guilt and price tag of takeout.

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Calories: 448kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 98mg | Sodium: 891mg | Potassium: 1130mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 862IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 2mg
chicken smashed tacos
chicken smashed tacos

Smash Chicken Tacos

These Smashed Chicken Tacos are proof that meal prep doesn’t have to be boring. They’re quick, fun, and full of flavor—plus, they satisfy those taco cravings in the best way possible. So grab your skillet and let’s get smashing!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 448 kcal

Equipment

  • skillet
  • mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz ground chicken
  • 4 mini tortillas
  • 1 cup pico de gallo
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 avocado (sliced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with taco seasoning. Mix gently by hand to keep the chicken tender, then divide into four equal portions and roll into balls.
  • Prep the Tortillas: Lay out your mini tortillas and place a chicken ball in the center of each. Use your hands or a measuring cup to flatten the chicken, spreading it evenly across the tortilla.
  • Sizzle Time: Heat a large skillet over high heat and drizzle with olive oil. Place each tortilla in the pan, chicken side down. Use a spatula to firmly press the tortilla into the pan for a crispy, golden finish.
  • Flip & Finish: Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook the tortilla side until it’s beautifully golden and crisp.
  • Top It Off: Pile on shredded lettuce, fresh pico de gallo, and creamy avocado slices. Serve immediately or store for later!

Notes

Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used. Please consult with your healthcare provider for specific dietary needs. To gain a better understanding, explore our nutrition disclaimer here

Nutrition

Calories: 448kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 22gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 98mgSodium: 891mgPotassium: 1130mgFiber: 8gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 862IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 28mgIron: 2mg

Why These Smashed Chicken Tacos Make Meal Prep Fun:

  • Flavor Explosion: These tacos are packed with flavor from the seasoned chicken to the fresh pico de gallo and creamy avocado. They’re so good, you’ll forget about that takeout menu.
  • Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Mini tortillas keep portions in check without leaving you feeling deprived. Plus, they’re just so cute!
  • Quick & Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
  • Budget-Friendly: Forget overpriced takeout! These tacos cost a fraction of what you’d spend at a restaurant and use minimal ingredients.
  • Customizable: Want extra heat? Add jalapeños. Craving cheese? Sprinkle some on top. These tacos are a blank canvas for your favorite toppings.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Make a batch and store them in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer, and they’re just as delicious as day one.
  • Know What’s in Your Food: When you cook at home, you control the ingredients—no hidden sugars, excess sodium, or mystery oils. Just clean, wholesome goodness.

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INGREDIENTS YOU NEED

  • Ground Chicken: The star of the show! Ground chicken is lean, versatile, and absorbs flavors beautifully. When seasoned with taco seasoning, it becomes savory, slightly spicy, and packed with flavor. Its mild taste makes it the perfect base to let the fresh toppings shine.
  • Mini Flour Tortillas: These 4-inch tortillas are the ideal size for creating individually portioned tacos. They provide a soft, slightly chewy texture that crisps up beautifully when cooked. The tortilla acts as the foundation, holding all the deliciousness together while adding a subtle, comforting flavor.
  • Taco Seasoning: This blend of spices—typically including chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder—adds warmth, depth, and a hint of smokiness to the chicken. It’s the secret to turning simple ground chicken into a taco sensation!
  • Pico de Gallo: Fresh, vibrant, and zesty, pico de gallo brings a burst of flavor to every bite. Made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and sometimes jalapeños, it adds a juicy, tangy element that balances the savory chicken.
  • Shredded Lettuce: This light, crunchy addition adds freshness and texture to the tacos. It contrasts the warm, cooked components with a crisp bite, making the dish feel balanced and refreshing.
  • Avocado: Creamy, rich, and slightly nutty, avocado ties everything together. It complements the spice from the chicken and the tanginess of the pico de gallo, while adding a luxurious texture to each bite. Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
chicken smashed tacos

How to Meal Prep Smash Chicken Tacos

  1. Season the Chicken: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the ground chicken and sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over it. Using clean hands, gently mix until the seasoning is well combined with the chicken. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and roll each into a ball.
  2. Prepare the Tortillas: Lay out the mini tortillas on a clean surface. Place one chicken ball in the center of each tortilla. Using your hands or the back of a spoon, flatten and spread the chicken across the tortilla until it forms an even layer, covering the tortilla’s surface.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet on the stove and set it to high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon) and let it heat up for about 30 seconds to a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil looks shiny and moves easily across the pan.
  4. Cook the Chicken Side: Carefully place each tortilla into the skillet, chicken side down. Use a spatula to firmly press down on the tortilla to ensure the chicken makes full contact with the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and has developed a golden-brown crust.
  5. Flip and Cook the Tortilla Side: Gently flip the tortilla over so the chicken side is facing up. Let the tortilla side cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove the tacos from the skillet and set them on a plate.
  6. Add the Toppings: Once all the tacos are cooked, top them with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and avocado slices. Serve immediately or let them cool before storing in airtight containers for meal prep.

chicken smashed tacos

Meal Prep Pairing Tips

  • Side Salad: A citrusy arugula or spinach salad with a lime vinaigrette complements the tacos’ zestiness.
  • Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad): This creamy, tangy dish pairs perfectly with the tacos’ savory flavors.
  • Cilantro Lime Rice: The subtle lime and cilantro flavors echo the tacos’ fresh toppings.
  • Black Beans or Refried Beans: A classic side that adds a creamy texture and boosts protein and fiber.
  • Tortilla Chips with Guacamole or Salsa: These make a great appetizer or side to munch on while enjoying your tacos.
  • Jicama Slaw: This crunchy, slightly sweet slaw adds a refreshing twist.
chicken smashed tacos

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, pork, and beef can be substituted for the chicken. Just adjust the seasonings as needed to match your choice of protein.


How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be golden-brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure there’s no pink in the center of the chicken.


Can I cook these in the oven instead of on the stove?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tortilla-chicken combos on a lined baking sheet, chicken side up. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden. For a crispier tortilla, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.

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