Queso Chicken Tacos

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Massage the seasonings into the chicken so it’s well-coated.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
3. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Once cooled slightly, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Queso Sauce

1. Make a roux: In the same skillet (or a separate saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Add milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
3. Add cheese and seasoning: Lower the heat and slowly add in the shredded cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy, smooth sauce. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt to taste. Continue stirring until fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Queso Sauce

1. Combine the chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the queso sauce, stirring well to coat the chicken in the creamy queso. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a bit of extra chicken broth or milk.
2. Add sour cream: Stir in the sour cream to add an extra layer of richness and creaminess to the dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm the tortillas: Lightly heat your tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and pliable.
2. Assemble the tacos: Spoon the queso chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, jalapeño slices (if desired), and a squeeze of lime juice for that perfect zesty finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Queso Chicken Tacos immediately while the chicken is hot and the cheese sauce is creamy. These tacos are perfect with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or chips and salsa. The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and zesty toppings is sure to be a hit!

Tips and Variations

• Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add extra jalapeños, diced serrano peppers, or even a bit of chipotle powder to the chicken mixture.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced tomatoes, avocado, or roasted peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the chicken and queso sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and assemble the tacos.
• Swap the Protein: For a variation, swap the chicken for beef, shrimp, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or grilled vegetables.

Conclusion

These Queso Chicken Tacos are a cheesy, savory, and downright delicious way to enjoy tacos. The rich, creamy queso sauce adds an irresistible flavor to tender, seasoned chicken, and the fresh toppings balance out the richness with a burst of brightness. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend taco feast, these tacos will definitely become a favorite in your household!