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Ultimate Smash Chicken Tacos Recipe

Four delicious smash chicken tacos loaded with dark seasoned chicken, topped with fresh cilantro and diced white onion.
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Learn how to make restaurant-style smash chicken tacos with incredibly crispy, flattened chicken filling. This unique method delivers maximum flavor and texture for your next taco night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
  • For Topping: Chopped cilantro, diced white onion, lime wedges, your favorite salsa

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken thighs thoroughly in the spice mixture until fully coated.
  2. Heat the cooking surface: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get hot.
  3. Cook and smash: Place two or three seasoned chicken thighs in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Immediately place a piece of parchment paper over the chicken. Use a heavy, flat object (like a sturdy metal spatula or a pot bottom) to press down firmly on the chicken until it is flattened to about 1/2 inch thickness.
  4. Sear the chicken: Cook the smashed chicken for 4 to 5 minutes without moving it, allowing a deep, crispy crust to form.
  5. Flip and finish: Remove the weight and parchment paper. Flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through and very crispy. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last minute of cooking and cover briefly to melt.
  6. Warm the tortillas: While the chicken rests briefly, warm your tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a low gas flame until pliable.
  7. Assemble the tacos: Chop the crispy smash chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken mixture onto the warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onion, and salsa. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

  • For the best smash, use chicken thighs; they stay moister than breasts during the flattening process.
  • If you do not have a heavy press, use two sturdy spatulas to press down hard on the chicken through the parchment paper.
  • Follow us on Pinterest for more over the top chicken tacos ideas!

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/smash-chicken-tacos-recipe-how-to-make/