Yields: 4 Servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded to even thickness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips (plain or flavored)
For cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
Toppings (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Chopped cilantro
Instructions
1. Prep the chicken
- If chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half lengthwise or pound to an even thickness (about 1/4 – 1/2 inch).
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the breading stations
- Dish 1: Combine flour, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, and cumin (if using).
- Dish 2: Beat the eggs in a shallow dish.
- Dish 3: Place crushed tortilla chips in another shallow dish.
3. Coat the chicken
- Working with one piece of chicken at a time:
- Dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip in the beaten egg, coating evenly.
- Thoroughly coat with the crushed tortilla chips, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Cook the chicken
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken in batches for a few minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Optionally, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake for a final 5-10 minutes until fully cooked and crispy.
5. Assemble and serve
- Warm your preferred taco shells (if using).
- Add the cooked chicken to the tortillas.
- Top with your favorite toppings like cheese, salsa, sour cream, avocado, tomatoes, lettuce, and cilantro.
Tips
Adjust the spices: Customize the spice mix to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or other seasonings you enjoy.
Flavorful chips: Use flavored tortilla chips (like nacho cheese or ranch) for an extra flavor boost.
Baking option: For a lighter version, bake the chicken from the start instead of pan-frying. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 425°F (220°C) or until cooked through.
Enjoy your delicious and crunchy tortilla-crusted taco chicken!
