The moment I let the sweet and tangy aroma of broiled tomatillos and fresh avocado waft through my kitchen, I knew I was about to create something special. These Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce are more than just a meal; they’re a delightful journey back to the vibrant flavors of my favorite taco stand, all from the comfort of my home.
Imagine biting into a warm, crispy tortilla filled with juicy, seasoned chicken topped with a creamy, zesty sauce that brings a burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something delicious yet incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and under 30 minutes of your time, these tacos will reignite your love for home-cooked goodness, leaving those fast-food temptations behind. Get ready to dive into a fiesta of flavor!
Why Love Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce?
Bold flavors: The zesty avocado tomatillo sauce adds a fresh twist, elevating the classic taco experience.
Easy preparation: Quick and straightforward, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or a get-together, everyone will love these scrumptious tacos.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Wholesome ingredients: Made with fresh, nutritious elements, this dish is a healthy alternative to fast food.
Satisfying crunch: Enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy tortillas and tender chicken in every bite.
Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce Ingredients
Get ready to create a flavorful feast!
For the Chicken Filling
- Extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the onion to perfection.
- Small yellow onion, chopped – Provides a savory base that enhances the overall flavor.
- Shredded cooked chicken – Offers a hearty protein that pairs beautifully with the tacos.
- Chicken taco seasoning – Imparts that authentic taco flavor, making every bite delightful.
For the Tortillas
- Corn tortillas – The true canvas for your tacos; choose fresh for extra flavor.
- Shredded Mexican cheese – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess to the crispy tacos.
For the Avocado Tomatillo Sauce
- Tomatillos, husked and rinsed – Their tangy kick will elevate your sauce, bringing brightness to the dish.
- Avocado, peeled and pitted – Adds creaminess that balances the spicy elements.
- Small jalapeño, diced – Introduces a lovely heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- Cloves garlic, diced – Infuses a robust flavor that complements the salsa perfectly.
- Fresh lime juice – Brightens the sauce with a refreshing zing.
- Agave – A touch of sweetness to balance the tang of tomatillos.
- Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream – Adds a creamy texture to the sauce, enhancing its richness.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors altogether.
- Freshly chopped cilantro for garnish – An aromatic final touch that brings freshness and a pop of color.
These Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce are more than just a meal; they’re a delicious adventure waiting to happen!
How to Make Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce
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Preheat the broiler to High. This will ensure your tomatillos get that nice char, enhancing their flavor.
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Broil the tomatillos on a lined baking sheet for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through until they are slightly softened. Once done, blend them with avocado, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, agave, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Taste, season with salt and pepper, and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to use it.
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Prepare the oven by preheating it to 425°F and lining a rimmed baking sheet with silicone mats or aluminum foil. This makes clean-up a breeze!
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Sauté the onion in 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook until softened, around 2 to 3 minutes. This will add a sweet aroma to your chicken filling.
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Mix in the shredded chicken and taco seasoning. Stir until well combined, then remove from heat and set aside for assembly.
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Warm the corn tortillas by wrapping them in damp paper towels and microwaving on High for 30 seconds to 1 minute. This will make them easier to fold without tearing.
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Brush both sides of each tortilla with a little olive oil before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
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Assemble the tacos by sprinkling half of the shredded cheese on one side of each tortilla. Add an even portion of the chicken filling, then top with the remaining cheese. Fold them to create those delightful tacos.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Carefully flip each taco and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown and the edges are dark brown and crispy.
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Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve the tacos warm with your creamy avocado tomatillo sauce on the side.
Optional: Squeeze more lime juice over the tacos just before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Taco Variations
Feel free to explore these fun adjustments and make this recipe truly your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced serrano peppers to the filling for those who love extra heat. Just a few will elevate the spice level significantly.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and black beans for a savory, plant-based version. It’s hearty and delicious!
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Cheesy Bliss: Swap in pepper jack cheese for some extra creaminess and a spicy twist. Melty cheese will take your tacos to the next level.
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Crispy Toppings: Top the tacos with crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch. This little twist transforms your tacos into a textural delight.
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Cilantro-Free Option: If cilantro isn’t your thing, try fresh parsley or even green onions for a different herbal touch.
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Tropical Flair: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple into the sauce for a sweet tropical burst. It’s a refreshing surprise that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken!
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Whole Wheat Tortillas: Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. They add a nutty taste that complements the chicken.
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Lime Zest Boost: Zest a lime into the sauce for an extra punch of citrus flavor. The added brightness really enhances the overall taste profile.
Each variation is a new adventure, so let your creativity shine as you craft your perfect Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce!
What to Serve with Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce?
To create a complete feast around your flavorful chicken tacos, consider these delightful pairings that enhance each bite.
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Creamy Guacamole: The rich texture and flavor of fresh guacamole add a velvety element that complements the zesty tacos. Enjoy it as a dip alongside or on top of your creations.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of sweet corn, lime, and cilantro provides a burst of flavor and a crunchy contrast to the softness of your tacos. This salad will brighten your plate!
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Spicy Black Bean Soup: The warm, spiced flavors of black bean soup make for a hearty addition to your meal, adding depth and richness that pairs perfectly with the tacos’ crispy goodness.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish serves as a soothing base for your tacos, absorbing the flavors and adding a light, zesty touch that ties the meal together beautifully.
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Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa create an irresistible starter, inviting everyone to dig into the festivities before the main event.
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Fruit Agua Fresca: A refreshing drink, like a watermelon agua fresca, balances the savory elements of the meal, providing a light, sweet sip you’ll want to savor alongside your tacos.
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Flan: For dessert, indulge in a creamy and sweet flan. Its silky texture and caramel notes offer a perfect, light ending after enjoying your zesty meal.
These pairings will not only complement your Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce but elevate your dinner experience to a full culinary fiesta!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the assembled tacos without sauce for up to 2 months. Wrap each taco in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: Reheat frozen tacos in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Serve with freshly made avocado tomatillo sauce for the best flavor.
Sauce Storage: Store any remaining avocado tomatillo sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also works wonderfully as a dip!
Tips for the Best Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce
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Prep Smartly: Gather all ingredients before starting. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Tortilla Technique: Warm corn tortillas properly to avoid tearing. Wrapping them in damp paper towels before microwaving helps maintain flexibility.
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Balanced Sauce: Taste the avocado tomatillo sauce before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to ensure it’s well-seasoned and flavorful.
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Crispy Finish: Flip the tacos halfway through baking to achieve even crispiness on both sides. Watch closely towards the end to prevent burning.
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Customize Toppings: Get creative! Add fresh veggies or extra cheese to your tacos based on your family’s preferences for a personal touch.
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Storage Savvy: Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great dip for chips or another taco night!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the avocado tomatillo sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply blend all the sauce ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor. Additionally, the shredded chicken mixed with taco seasoning can be made up to 24 hours ahead—just refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the tacos. When it’s time to serve, warm the chicken mixture, assemble the tacos as directed, and bake them for that delightful crispiness. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality tacos with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right tomatillos for the sauce?
Absolutely! When choosing tomatillos, look for firm ones with a bright green color and intact husks. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage. Fresh tomatillos should have a slight shine, suggesting they are juicy and ready to use.
What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Tacos?
Very! To store your leftover Chicken Tacos, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the avocado tomatillo sauce, store it separately in a sealed container. This prevents the sauce from soaking into the tortillas and keeps them crispy!
Can I freeze the Chicken Tacos?
Definitely! To freeze the assembled Chicken Tacos, wrap each taco individually in foil or plastic wrap. Then, place them all in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat the frozen tacos in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. The result is just like fresh off the baking sheet!
What should I do if my avocado tomatillo sauce is too acidic?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too tangy, you can balance it by adding a pinch of sugar or agave to sweeten it slightly. Start with a small amount and blend well, tasting as you go until you achieve the desired flavor. If it’s still too acidic, a bit more Greek yogurt or sour cream can add creaminess and mellow out the acidity.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know about?
Certainly! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring you use certified gluten-free corn tortillas. For dairy-free options, substitute the shredded cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. Always check the labels for allergens!
How can I customize my Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce?
The more the merrier! Feel free to personalize your tacos with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even fresh avocado slices. You might like to add some crunchy lettuce for texture or switch up the protein by using shredded beef or veggies!
Flavor-Packed Chicken Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the broiler to High.
- Broil the tomatillos on a lined baking sheet for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Blend tomatillos with avocado, jalapeño, garlic, lime juice, agave, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet.
- Sauté onion in olive oil over medium-high heat until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in shredded chicken and taco seasoning, stir until well combined.
- Warm tortillas by wrapping them in damp paper towels, microwaving for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Brush both sides of tortillas with olive oil and place on the baking sheet.
- Assemble tacos by sprinkling half of the shredded cheese on one side of each tortilla, add chicken filling, then top with remaining cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip each taco and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve warm with avocado tomatillo sauce.