These shredded chicken tacos topped with a creamy chimichurri sauce are a flavor-packed meal perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, fresh toppings, and a zesty sauce, they come together quickly and are sure to become a family favorite.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy:ย This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking less than 30 minutes to prepare.
- Bursting with Flavor:ย The creamy chimichurri sauce adds a tangy, herby kick to the tacos.
- Customizable:ย Easily adapt the toppings and spice level to your liking.
- Perfect for Meal Prep:ย Make a batch of chicken and sauce ahead of time for effortless meals throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: Youโll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shredded cooked chicken
- Taco-sized tortillas (corn or flour)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Chimichurri sauce (parsley, cilantro, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and seasonings)
- Sour cream (for the creamy chimichurri sauce)
- Toppings: diced onions, avocado slices, jalapeรฑos, shredded lettuce, or cheese
Directions
- Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:ย In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings. Blend until smooth. Stir in sour cream to make it creamy.
- Shred the Chicken:ย Use pre-cooked chicken or cook chicken breasts in a skillet until tender, then shred with forks.
- Warm the Tortillas:ย Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or in the microwave until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos:ย Layer shredded chicken onto each tortilla. Drizzle with creamy chimichurri sauce. Add your desired toppings.
- Serve and Enjoy:ย Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings:ย This recipe makes 6-8 tacos, depending on tortilla size and filling amounts.
- Prep Time:ย 10 minutes
- Cook Time:ย 15 minutes
- Total Time:ย 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick:ย Add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeรฑos to the chimichurri sauce.
- Vegetarian Option:ย Replace shredded chicken with roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
- Low-Carb:ย Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter option.
- Different Proteins:ย Try shredded beef, pork, or grilled fish instead of chicken.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage:ย Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:ย Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Chimichurri sauce is best served fresh but can be used straight from the fridge.
FAQs
What is chimichurri sauce?
Chimichurri is a tangy, herb-based sauce originating from Argentina. Itโs made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.
Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
Are corn or flour tortillas better for tacos?
Both work well! Corn tortillas are traditional, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.
Can I freeze the shredded chicken?
Yes, shredded chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Is the sauce spicy?
The traditional chimichurri sauce isnโt typically spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or jalapeรฑos.
What other toppings can I use?
Popular options include salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes.
How do I prevent soggy tacos?
Serve tacos immediately after assembling to avoid soggy tortillas. Alternatively, layer lettuce between the tortilla and chicken.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, skip the sour cream in the sauce or use a dairy-free alternative.
How do I store leftover chimichurri sauce?
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before using.
Conclusion
Shredded chicken tacos with creamy chimichurri sauce are a quick and flavorful meal that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether youโre feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, these tacos are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a vibrant, delicious dish!
Print
Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Assembly
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce are a delicious twist on classic tacos. Tender, seasoned shredded chicken is paired with a creamy, herbaceous chimichurri sauce and topped with your favorite taco fixings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these tacos are bursting with flavor and come together in no time!
Ingredients
For the Shredded Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water (to keep the chicken moist)
For the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Shredded Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add chicken broth or water and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and well-seasoned. Set aside.
- Make the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
- In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Greek yogurt, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken to each tortilla.
- Drizzle the creamy chimichurri sauce over the chicken.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and crumbled cotija cheese, if using.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- You can substitute plain Greek yogurt with sour cream or mayonnaise for the sauce.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped jalapeรฑo to the chimichurri sauce.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
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