Chicken and Avocado Tacos
Savor these flavorful tacos filled with marinated chicken, creamy avocado, and a burst of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or a delightful family dinner.
Chicken and Avocado Tacos are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying combination of tender, marinated chicken and creamy avocado. Enhanced by the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the mild richness of mozzarella, and the briny kick of black olives, this filling is elevated with the freshness of parsley and basil. All these ingredients are wrapped in soft, warm tortillas and grilled to golden perfection, creating a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the luscious filling. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests with a crowd-pleasing dish, these tacos deliver on taste, simplicity, and versatility.
HISTORY aND ORIGINS
Tacos are a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, beloved for their versatility and ability to showcase fresh, vibrant ingredients. While traditional tacos often feature slow-cooked meats, modern adaptations have embraced global influences, leading to the creation of lighter, more health-conscious options like chicken and avocado tacos.
This recipe blends classic taco-making techniques with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, incorporating sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and fresh herbs. It’s a dish that bridges cultural culinary traditions, offering a fresh and flavorful take on the timeless taco. Perfect for casual meals or festive gatherings, it reflects how tacos have become a global favorite, continually evolving to suit diverse tastes.
NUTRITION BENIFITS
- Lean Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, promoting muscle growth and repair while keeping the dish light and satisfying.
- Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which support cardiovascular health and improve nutrient absorption.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs like parsley and basil are packed with antioxidants that help combat inflammation and boost immunity.
- Fiber Boost: Black olives and avocado add fiber to the dish, aiding digestion and supporting gut health.
- Calcium-Rich: Mozzarella cheese offers a good dose of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS DISH
• Bursting with Flavor: The smoky paprika, fresh herbs, and creamy avocado create a mouthwatering medley of tastes in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, this dish balances indulgence with nutrition.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences swap the chicken for shrimp, add spicy chili, or try a different cheese.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive occasion, these tacos are guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Step-by-Step Process
1- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried coriander, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-8 minutes on each side, covering the pan for even cooking, until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
3- Prepare the Filling: On a cutting board, place the cooked chicken, fresh parsley, basil leaves, sundried tomatoes, black olives, mozzarella balls, avocado, and a dollop of mayonnaise. Chop everything finely with a sharp knife, mixing as you go, until you achieve a cohesive filling. Season with a touch of salt and pepper if needed.
4- Assemble the Tacos: Lay a tortilla flat and spoon a generous amount of the chicken-avocado mixture onto one side. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal.
5- Grill the Tacos: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Grill each taco for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently to ensure they turn golden and crispy.
6- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the tacos in half if desired and serve them warm.
Pair with a fresh side salad, guacamole, or salsa for an extra kick.
ESSENTIAL TOOLS YOU'LL NEED
Sharp Knife: To finely chop the herbs, tomatoes, olives, and chicken. A sharp knife will make the chopping process quick and efficient.
Cutting Board: For prepping all the ingredients in one place. A sturdy, spacious cutting board will give you enough room to work with.
Skillet or Grill Pan: Essential for cooking the chicken and grilling the tacos. A non-stick skillet or grill pan will help the chicken cook evenly and prevent sticking.
Tongs or Spatula: To flip the chicken during cooking and handle the tacos while grilling.
Large Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the filling ingredients together before placing it in the tortillas.
Tortilla Press (Optional): If you’re making your own tortillas, a tortilla press will help you flatten them evenly.
Grill Pan or Panini Press: To grill the assembled tacos and get that perfect crispy texture on the outside.
Serving Plates or Trays: To present your tacos beautifully once they’re ready to serve.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with grilled beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Q: Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
A: While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prep the filling ingredients in advance. Simply store them separately and assemble the tacos just before grilling.
Q: What if I don’t have tortillas or panini bread?
A: You can use any flatbread or pita as a substitute. Just make sure to heat it up before filling and grilling for the best texture.
Q: Can I make these tacos spicy?
A: Yes, you can add a dash of chili powder or fresh chopped jalapeños to the chicken marinade, or top the tacos with your favorite hot sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover chicken filling can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.
PERFECT PAIRINGS
- Side Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette balances the richness of the tacos.
- Guacamole: Add a creamy, flavorful guacamole for a satisfying dip to complement the tacos.
- Chilled Drink: A refreshing iced tea or sparkling lemonade adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the tacos.
- Salsa: A spicy, chunky salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro pairs perfectly with the tacos for an extra layer of flavor.
Chicken and Avocado Tacos
Chicken and Avocado Tacos are a delightful combination of tender, seasoned chicken and creamy avocado, wrapped in soft tortillas. Perfectly grilled and filled with fresh ingredients.
SERVES
4
sevings
PREP
15
minutes
COOK
15
minutes
CALORIES
350
Kcl
INGREDIENTS
For the marinade and chicken:
• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried garlic
• 1 tsp dried coriander
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
For the filling:
• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 sun-dried tomatoes
• 6 mozzarella balls
• 10 pitted black olives
• 1 tsp mayonnaise
• A handful of fresh parsley
• A few fresh basil leaves
• A pinch of salt and pepper
For the assembly:
• 4 tortilla wraps
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
INSTRUCTIONS
1.Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the salt, pepper, dried garlic, coriander, smoked paprika, and olive oil. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this marinade and let them rest for at least 15 minutes (longer for deeper flavor). Heat a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts over medium heat for 5 to 8 minutes on each side, covering the skillet for moist, tender results.
2.Prepare the Filling: Once the chicken is cooked, place it on a cutting board. Add parsley, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, avocado, and mayonnaise. Finely chop everything together with a knife until it forms a well-mixed, cohesive filling.
3.Assemble the Tacos: Spread the filling evenly in the center of each tortilla wrap. Fold the edges over the filling and press gently to secure the shape. Heat a skillet with a little olive oil and grill the tacos on both sides until they are crispy and golden.
PRO TIPS
1- Marinate Ahead: For more flavor, marinate the chicken the night before.
2- Add Spice: Sprinkle some chili flakes into the filling for a spicy kick.
3- Even Grilling: Use a panini press or sandwich grill to achieve perfectly pressed and crispy tacos.
VARIATIONS AND ADAPTATIONS
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or diced marinated tofu.
Alternate Wraps: Try whole wheat tortillas or spicy flavored wraps.
Mediterranean Twist: Add capers or a splash of lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
STORAGE & REHEATING
Store the filling separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and grill the tacos just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
For another take on this comforting classic, check out The Kitchn’s version of Chicken and Dumplings here.
These Chicken and Avocado Tacos bring together vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a delightful crunch. Quick to make and easy to customize, they’re a fantastic addition to your recipe collection for both busy weekdays and relaxed weekend meals.
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