The Delicious Chicken Tinga Tacos Tasty Recipe

Servings: 4 Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Bold and smoky Chicken Tinga Tacos perfect for taco nights, packed with flavor in every bite.
Three tacos filled with shredded chicken, topped with avocado slices, red onion, cilantro, and cheese, served on a dark plate with lime wedges, alongside bowls of rice and chopped onions. pinit

Craving tacos bursting with bold flavors? Look no further than Chicken Tinga Tacos, a dish that combines smoky chipotle, tangy tomatoes, and tender shredded chicken all wrapped in warm tortillas.

This Mexican classic is perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prep. With a balance of spice and tang, these tacos are guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Whether you’re new to making tacos or looking to spice up your taco night, this recipe will guide you step by step through the process. Let’s dive in!

The Delicious Chicken Tinga Tacos Tasty Recipe

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 40 mins
Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 12 Calories: 522 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Chicken Tinga Tacos are a Mexican staple made with shredded chicken simmered in a spicy, smoky tomato-based sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with warm tortillas and fresh toppings like avocado, onion, and cilantro. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, these tacos are a go-to for anyone seeking authentic Mexican flavors.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

For the Chicken Tinga

For the Tacos

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Step 1: Make the Tinga Sauce
    1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    2. Add sliced onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
    3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    4. Add fire-roasted tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir to combine.
    5. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
  2. Step 2: Simmer the Chicken
    1. Return the blended sauce to the skillet over medium heat.
    2. Add chicken stock and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    3. Bring to a simmer and stir in the shredded chicken.
    4. Reduce heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
    1. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
    2. Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of the Chicken Tinga.
    3. Top with diced onions, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
    4. Add optional toppings like queso fresco or sour cream for extra creaminess.

Equipment

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Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 522.72kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 21.18g33%
Saturated Fat 3.45g18%
Trans Fat 0.01g
Cholesterol 125.53mg42%
Sodium 1160.33mg49%
Potassium 1289.69mg37%
Total Carbohydrate 40.47g14%
Dietary Fiber 10g40%
Sugars 6.85g
Protein 45.35g91%

Vitamin A 322.51 IU
Vitamin C 51.83 mg
Calcium 113.03 mg
Iron 3.14 mg
Vitamin E 4.05 IU
Vitamin K 30.96 mcg
Thiamin 0.58 mg
Riboflavin 0.53 mg
Niacin 19.75 mg
Vitamin B6 1.88 mg
Folate 82.57 mcg
Vitamin B12 0.35 mcg
Phosphorus 598.26 mg
Magnesium 123.14 mg
Zinc 2.53 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Tips for the Best Chicken Tinga Tacos

  • Adjust Spice Levels: Use fewer chipotle peppers if you prefer a milder flavor. Add extra for more heat.
  • Make It Ahead: The Chicken Tinga can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
  • Use Fresh Tortillas: Freshly made or warmed tortillas elevate the taste and texture.

Suggested Pairings

  • Side Dishes: Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple side salad.
  • Drinks: Margaritas, Mexican beer, or a refreshing agua fresca.
  • Dessert: Churros or flan for a sweet finish.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
What is Chicken Tinga?

Chicken Tinga is a traditional Mexican dish made with shredded chicken simmered in a smoky, spicy tomato and chipotle sauce. It's a versatile filling used in tacos, tostadas, burritos, and more.

Can I make Chicken Tinga ahead of time?

Yes! Chicken Tinga is perfect for meal prep. You can make the dish up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

How can I adjust the spice level?

For a milder version, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or use only the adobo sauce. For extra heat, add more chipotles or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Are Chicken Tinga Tacos gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free corn tortillas, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels of store-bought ingredients like chicken stock to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply add it to the sauce and let it simmer to absorb the flavors.

What toppings go best with Chicken Tinga Tacos?

Popular toppings include diced onions, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime. You can also add salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Can I freeze Chicken Tinga?

Yes, Chicken Tinga freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What sides pair well with Chicken Tinga Tacos?

Try serving these tacos with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a light side salad. For a refreshing drink, pair them with a margarita or agua fresca.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with shredded pork, beef, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian option. The smoky Tinga sauce complements a variety of proteins.

What are chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

Chipotle peppers are smoked, dried jalapeños rehydrated in a tangy, spiced tomato-based sauce. They add a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to dishes. They are typically found in cans in the international foods aisle of most grocery stores.

Cover of "The Best Mexican Recipes" by America's Test Kitchen, featuring a variety of Mexican dishes, including tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, and grilled chicken, displayed on a dark background.

Conclusion

Chicken Tinga Tacos bring authentic Mexican flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort. The smoky chipotle sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and fresh toppings, making every bite a fiesta of flavors. Whether it’s taco night or a casual lunch, this recipe is bound to impress.

So gather your ingredients, warm up those tortillas, and enjoy a plate of these delicious tacos. Your taste buds will thank you!

Informational Links

How to Make Homemade Tortillas

The Best Salsas for Taco Night

Learn More About Chipotle Peppers

Mexican Cuisine Essentials

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