Description

Queso Chicken Tacos are a savory, cheesy, and satisfying twist on the classic taco. Tender chicken is seasoned, cooked, and then smothered in a rich, creamy queso sauce, creating a melt-in-your-mouth filling for soft tortillas. These tacos are quick to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit at any taco night. Topped with fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro, these tacos are the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon diced green chilies (optional for some heat)

8 small flour or corn tortillas

Fresh salsa or pico de gallo

Sliced avocado or guacamole

Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or shredding it with a fork.
Make the queso sauce: In the same skillet (or a separate saucepan), add the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and cream cheese (if using). Stir continuously over medium-low heat until the cheese is melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and diced green chilies (if using) to the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Once warm, place them on a serving plate and add the sliced or shredded chicken evenly across the tortillas. Pour the warm queso sauce over the chicken.
Top and serve: Top the tacos with fresh salsa or pico de gallo, sliced avocado or guacamole, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.

Notes

If you like your queso sauce spicy, add more diced green chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.

Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or black beans.

Use flour or corn tortillas based on preference, or try both for variety.

If you prefer a creamier sauce, increase the amount of cream cheese in the queso sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 taco
Calories: 300
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 65mg