These Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos are a must-try! Corn tortillas are stuffed with a smoky shredded chicken and poblano pepper mixture, loaded with melty cheese, and baked until golden and crispy. Paired with a creamy avocado-jalapeño salsa, these tacos are the ultimate combination of crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness. They’re perfect for taco night or any casual meal!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tacos:

• 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1½ tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp cilantro (leaves & stems), chopped

• 2 poblano peppers, deseeded & diced

• 1 small white onion, thinly sliced

• 6-8 corn tortillas

• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• Shredded lettuce (for serving)

• Lime wedges (for serving)

For the Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa:

• 1 large avocado

• 1 medium jalapeño, deseeded & roughly chopped

• ½ cup water

• ¼ cup cilantro (leaves & stems), chopped

• 1 tbsp white vinegar

• 1 tsp salt

Directions

1. Make the Salsa: Add avocado, chopped jalapeño, water, cilantro, white vinegar, and salt to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Cook the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking dish with cooking spray. In a large bowl, toss chicken thighs, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, minced garlic, cilantro, poblano peppers, and onion until well-coated. Arrange in the prepared dish and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the veggies are tender. Shred the chicken using two forks, and mix with the veggies.

3. Assemble the Tacos: Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the tortillas on the sheet, spray them with cooking spray, and bake for 2-3 minutes to soften. Once done, take them out, layer with cheese, shredded chicken mixture, and more cheese. Fold the tortillas over the filling, pressing gently to seal.

4. Bake the Tacos: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the tortillas are crispy.

5. Serve: Serve the tacos with the avocado-jalapeño salsa and enjoy!

Nutrients (estimated per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Protein: 30g

• Fat: 25g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Cholesterol: 100mg

• Sodium: 600mg

• Potassium: 450mg

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 4g

• Vitamin A: 1200 IU

• Vitamin C: 50mg

• Calcium: 250mg

• Iron: 4mg

The Perfect Combination of Smoky Chicken and Poblano Peppers

The star of these crispy poblano chicken tacos is the shredded chicken, which is seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic to create a smoky, flavorful base. The chicken thighs, known for their juiciness and tenderness, are the perfect choice for this dish as they stay moist during baking and shred beautifully. The poblano peppers, with their mild heat and earthy flavor, complement the chicken perfectly. When roasted alongside onions and garlic, the poblanos soften and release their smoky aroma, adding depth and complexity to the filling.

The Crunchy Texture of Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are the ideal choice for these tacos, providing a slightly nutty flavor and a sturdy base to hold all the delicious filling. The tortillas are lightly baked to soften them before being filled with the chicken mixture, cheese, and more cheese. When they’re baked again in the oven, the tortillas turn golden brown and crispy, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. This crunchy texture, combined with the creamy and smoky filling, makes each taco a delightful contrast in both taste and texture.

Cheese: The Melty, Gooey Goodness

No taco is complete without cheese, and in these crispy poblano chicken tacos, the Monterey Jack cheese is the perfect choice. Its mild flavor and excellent melting properties make it an ideal cheese for tacos. The cheese is layered inside the tortillas with the shredded chicken and poblano mixture, ensuring that each bite has a gooey, melty bite of cheese. The additional layer of cheese on top of the filling ensures that the tacos hold together beautifully as they bake, creating a perfectly crisp and cheesy taco that is irresistible.

The Freshness of Shredded Lettuce and Lime

To balance the richness of the crispy chicken and cheese, shredded lettuce is added as a fresh topping. The lettuce adds crunch and a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the smoky filling. A squeeze of lime adds a burst of citrusy brightness, cutting through the richness and enhancing the overall flavor of the tacos. These fresh elements round out the dish, providing a refreshing balance to the warm and crispy tacos.

The Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa: Creamy and Spicy

The avocado-jalapeño salsa is the perfect finishing touch for these tacos, adding a creamy texture and a spicy kick that ties everything together. The avocado brings a rich, buttery creaminess, while the jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat. The cilantro and vinegar provide freshness and acidity, helping to balance the richness of the avocado and the smokiness of the chicken. Blended together in a food processor, the salsa becomes smooth and velvety, providing a cool, spicy contrast to the warm, crispy tacos.

How to Make Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos

Making these crispy poblano chicken tacos is a straightforward process that comes together in a few simple steps. First, the chicken is seasoned with a flavorful spice blend and roasted with poblano peppers, onions, and garlic until tender. Once the chicken is cooked, it’s shredded and mixed with the vegetables, creating a smoky and hearty filling. Next, the tortillas are softened and filled with the chicken mixture and cheese before being folded and baked until golden and crispy. The tacos are then served with the creamy avocado-jalapeño salsa, creating the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and spicy goodness.

Nutritional Benefits of Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos

These crispy poblano chicken tacos offer a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The chicken provides a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The poblano peppers add a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants, while the avocado in the salsa provides heart-healthy fats and fiber. The shredded lettuce adds a fresh, fiber-rich component, and the cheese contributes calcium and protein. Overall, this dish is a satisfying and nutrient-rich meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos can be served with a variety of sides to complement the dish. Consider pairing them with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a more filling meal. A fresh salad with a tangy dressing or roasted vegetables would also provide a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the tacos. If you’re looking for a drink pairing, a cold margarita or a refreshing iced tea would be the perfect accompaniment to these flavorful tacos.

Conclusion: A Delicious and Flavorful Taco Experience

In conclusion, Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors, crispy textures, and a touch of heat. The combination of smoky shredded chicken, mild poblano peppers, melty cheese, and the creamy avocado-jalapeño salsa makes these tacos irresistible. Whether you’re preparing them for a taco night with friends or simply craving a flavorful, satisfying meal, these tacos are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With their perfect balance of savory, smoky, and spicy elements, Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos are the ultimate taco experience!