Global Mexican Chicken Tacos

Name: Global Mexican Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges

I absolutely love making Global Mexican Chicken Tacos at home! The burst of flavors from the spices and fresh ingredients creates a delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion. I especially enjoy the simplicity of preparing the chicken and the ease with which I can customize each taco to suit my family's tastes. Whether it's spicy salsa or creamy avocado, there's something for everyone. Trust me, once you try these tacos, you'll want to share them with friends and family!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T15:34:27.094Z

Making Global Mexican Chicken Tacos is one of my go-to dinners when I want something flavorful yet quick. I remember the first time I made them for my friends; they couldn't get enough of the seasoning on the chicken. I experimented with different spices until I found the perfect blend that complements the fresh toppings beautifully.

An important tip I discovered is to let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes—this really enhances the flavor! Use fresh ingredients for the toppings, and don’t hesitate to add your favorite spicy salsa for an extra kick!

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Bursting with authentic Mexican flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Perfect for a quick family dinner or gathering

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, using high-quality chicken breasts is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture. I recommend opting for organic or free-range chicken, as they tend to have a richer taste. When dicing, aim for uniform pieces, about 1-inch cubes, so they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite, but adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs generally take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Ensure that your chicken is patted dry before marinating. This allows the spices to adhere better, resulting in a more intense flavor. If you're short on time, you can marinate the chicken for just 10 minutes, but a longer marination of 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator leads to a more flavorful outcome.

Perfecting Your Tacos

Warming the corn tortillas is crucial for enhancing their flavor and pliability. I suggest a medium pan over medium heat—about 30-60 seconds per side until they’re soft and slightly charred. This not only adds a toasty taste but also prevents the tortillas from cracking when you fill them. If you’re making a larger batch, simply wrap the warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm while you finish the rest.

Feel free to explore different toppings based on personal preference or what's in season. For instance, swapping out the diced tomatoes for fresh pico de gallo or adding a zesty radish slaw can elevate the dish. You might also consider adding some crumbled queso fresco or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare these tasty tacos.

Ingredients for Chicken

2 chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Taco Toppings

Corn tortillas
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your tacos:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked and browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry pan. Once warmed, fill each tortilla with the cooked chicken and top with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.

Serve

Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an added zest.

Enjoy your delicious tacos!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some diced jalapeños or a few spoonfuls of salsa to the chicken mix.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning for a busy week, the chicken can be marinated a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen. Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheats beautifully in the microwave or a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated chicken. Place it in a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery.

Variations and Customizations

These tacos are incredibly versatile; feel free to experiment with spices in the marination. Try adding smoked paprika or cayenne for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, for a touch of sweetness, include a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance out the spices. Don't hesitate to adjust the heat level by using different chili powders or adding jalapeño slices as a topping.

For a healthier twist, you can make lettuce wraps instead of using tortillas. Just fill large lettuce leaves with the chicken and toppings for a low-carb version. This also works well with the same flavor profile while providing a refreshing crunch that complements the marinated chicken perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground beef, turkey, or tofu are great alternatives.

→ How can I make the tacos spicy?

You can add diced jalapeños or use a spicier salsa to enhance the heat.

→ Are these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, if you use corn tortillas, they are gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.