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Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos with Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa

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Taco Tuesday just got an upgrade! 🌮🔥 Meet the Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos topped with creamy Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa. 🥑🌶️ Perfectly seasoned chicken, charred poblanos, and crunchy taco shells come together for an explosion of flavor. 💥 Whether it’s a family dinner or a party platter, these tacos are guaranteed to impress! 🎉✨ Get ready to savor every spicy, creamy, and crispy bite! 🤤

#PoblanoTacos #AvocadoSalsaDreams #CrispyPerfection #TacoTuesdayGoals #FlavorPacked #SpicyAndSavory #FoodieDelight #TexMexLove #TacoCravings #KitchenMagic 🌮🔥🥑🌶️

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tacos

  • Chicken Thighs (1½ lbs.): Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs are perfect for shredding and hold up well to the smoky spices.
  • Olive Oil (2 Tbsp): Helps the chicken and veggies cook evenly while enhancing the spices’ aroma.
  • Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika): These spices add a smoky, earthy flavor that complements the poblano peppers.
  • Poblano Peppers (2, deseeded & diced): The star of the dish, these mild peppers add a subtle smokiness without overpowering heat.
  • White Onion (1 small, thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and depth when roasted alongside the chicken.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the chicken with a savory, aromatic punch.
  • Corn Tortillas (6-8): Their slightly sweet, earthy flavor contrasts beautifully with the filling.
  • Monterey Jack Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Creamy, melty cheese that binds the filling and adds richness.
  • Cilantro (2 Tbsp, chopped): Adds freshness and a slight citrusy undertone to the dish.

For the Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa

  • Avocado (1 large): Creamy and rich, the base of this vibrant salsa.
  • Jalapeño (1 medium, deseeded): Adds a kick of heat while staying balanced.
  • Water (½ cup): Helps achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
  • Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): Lends a herbaceous, fresh note.
  • White Vinegar (1 Tbsp): Adds a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
  • Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors in the salsa.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa

  1. Combine avocado, jalapeño, water, cilantro, white vinegar, and salt in a food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the water if needed for a thinner consistency.
  3. Cover and refrigerate the salsa to let the flavors meld while you prepare the tacos.

Pro Tip: If you like extra heat, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in the mix!

2. Cook the Chicken and Veggies

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic, cilantro, poblano peppers, and onion. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  4. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the roasted veggies in the dish.

Flavor Boost: Roast an additional poblano pepper alongside the chicken and blend it into the salsa for an extra smoky kick.

3. Assemble the Tacos

  1. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out the corn tortillas, spray them with cooking spray, and bake for 2-3 minutes to soften.
  3. Remove from the oven and layer each tortilla with shredded cheese, a generous scoop of the chicken and veggie mixture, and more cheese.
  4. Fold the tortillas over the filling and press gently to secure.

4. Bake the Tacos

  1. Arrange the folded tacos on the baking sheet and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
  2. Flip the tacos halfway through baking for even crispiness.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve the tacos hot with a dollop of avocado-jalapeño salsa on top.
  • Garnish with shredded lettuce, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  1. Protein Options: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, shredded pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
  2. Cheese Choices: Try cheddar, queso fresco, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
  3. Tortilla Alternatives: Use flour tortillas for a softer texture or gluten-free tortillas for a celiac-friendly meal.
  4. Salsa Additions: Add a splash of lime juice or a pinch of cumin to the salsa for added complexity.
  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes