Zesty Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

Sinking your teeth into mouthwatering shredded chicken tacos with a chimichurri sauce that dances across your taste buds.

Mexican-inspired comfort arrives with this simple yet spectacular dish that promises pure culinary excitement.

Tender chicken nestles perfectly inside warm tortillas, creating a canvas for vibrant, zesty flavors.

The creamy chimichurri acts like a flavor superhero, transforming ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Each bite combines tangy herbs, rich protein, and a smooth sauce that makes your palate sing with joy.

Quick to assemble and bursting with fresh ingredients, these tacos bring restaurant-quality deliciousness right to your kitchen.

Summer gatherings or weeknight dinners will never be the same once you master this irresistible recipe that guarantees smiles all around.

Why Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce Are So Flavorful

• Flavor Explosion: Dive into a tantalizing mix of zesty chili-spiced chicken paired with herbaceous chimichurri sauce that creates a mouthwatering taste adventure in every bite.
• Effortless Cooking Magic: Transform ordinary chicken into tender, juicy goodness using a slow cooker or instant pot, making meal preparation incredibly simple and stress-free for busy home cooks.
• Customizable Comfort: Easily personalize these tacos with your favorite toppings, allowing everyone to build their perfect taco and enjoy a fun, interactive dining experience that brings families and friends together.
• Quick and Nutritious Meal: Whip up a protein-packed dinner in under 30 minutes that's loaded with fresh herbs, lean protein, and vibrant vegetables, ensuring a delicious and wholesome meal with minimal effort.

Everything Needed For Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, lean protein that becomes the star of the tacos, best when fresh and boneless.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances chicken's natural flavor, low-sodium recommended.

• Parsley, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that provide bright, zesty green base for the sauce, choose vibrant, crisp leaves.

• Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Robust spice blend that gives deep, complex flavor to the chicken, use fresh ground spices for best results.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning that balances and enhances overall taste.

• Red Wine Vinegar: Tangy liquid that adds bright acidity to the chimichurri, choose high-quality vinegar.
• Olive Oil: Smooth base that helps emulsify the sauce, extra virgin preferred.
• Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: Creamy element that softens the sauce's sharpness, full-fat version recommended.

• Tortillas: Soft corn or flour base for tacos, warm before serving.
• Lettuce, Tomatoes: Fresh vegetables that add crunch and freshness.
• Queso Fresco: Mild, crumbly cheese that complements the spicy chicken.
• Lime: Citrus that provides bright, zesty finish to the dish.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds optional heat to the chimichurri sauce.

How To Make Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Flavor-Packed Chicken

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Pour chicken broth or water into the pot. Cover and let the magic happen! In a slow cooker, cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours. For instant pot lovers, use the poultry setting or pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Once done, use two forks to shred the chicken into tender, juicy pieces. Toss the shredded chicken in its flavorful cooking juices for an extra flavor punch.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

• Fresh parsley
• Cilantro
• Red wine vinegar
• Garlic cloves
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Pulse until everything is finely chopped. Slowly drizzle olive oil while blending to create a smooth sauce. Stir in mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to give the sauce a luxurious, creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper until it tastes like heaven.

Step 3: Craft Mouthwatering Tacos

• Shredded chicken
• Creamy chimichurri sauce
• Crisp shredded lettuce
• Diced fresh tomatoes
• Crumbled queso fresco

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your tacos and garnish with fresh lime wedges. The bright citrus will make the flavors pop! Invite friends, family, or simply treat yourself to this incredible meal.

Pro Tip: These tacos are perfect for meal prep. The chicken and sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for easy weeknight dinners.

Helpful Tips For Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

• Moisture Mastery: Prevent dry chicken by cooking in broth and letting it rest in the cooking liquid, which helps retain juiciness and adds deep flavor to the meat.
• Spice Smart: Customize the heat level by adjusting red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce, allowing flexibility for different spice tolerances.
• Herb Harmony: Use fresh herbs at room temperature for maximum flavor and better blending in the chimichurri sauce, ensuring a more vibrant and aromatic result.
• Gluten-Free Hack: Swap flour tortillas with corn tortillas or lettuce wraps to make the recipe completely gluten-free without compromising taste.
• Meal Prep Magic: Shredded chicken and chimichurri sauce can be prepared ahead and stored separately in refrigerator for up to 4 days, making weeknight dinners quick and easy.

How To Store And Reheat Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

• Refrigerate: Transfer shredded chicken and chimichurri sauce into separate airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping ingredients separate to maintain freshness.
• Freeze Chicken: Pack cooled shredded chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with date and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat Chicken: Warm shredded chicken in microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Add sauce after reheating to preserve texture.
• Sauce Storage: Keep chimichurri sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Stir well before using, as separation is natural. Use within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.

Perfect Sides With Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

• Pair with Zesty Margarita: Craft a classic margarita with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a touch of agave to complement the tangy chimichurri sauce and spiced chicken.
• Match with Crisp Mexican Lager: Grab a light, refreshing Mexican beer like Modelo Especial or Corona to cut through the richness of the creamy sauce and balance the spicy chicken.
• Serve with Cilantro-Lime Rice: Create a simple side of fluffy rice seasoned with fresh cilantro and lime zest to echo the herbaceous notes in the chimichurri and provide a cooling contrast to the spiced meat.
• Add Cabbage Slaw Companion: Whip up a quick, crunchy slaw with shredded cabbage, lime juice, and a hint of jalapeño to add texture and brightness that complements the tender shredded chicken tacos.

New Ways To Enjoy Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce

• Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Boost heat by adding diced fresh jalapeños to the chicken seasoning and mixing chopped green chilies into the chimichurri sauce for an extra zesty flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Replace chicken with lamb, swap chimichurri ingredients with oregano and mint, and top with crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired taco experience.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower or jackfruit, keeping the same spice blend and creamy chimichurri sauce for a plant-based alternative.
• Smoky Southwest Style: Grill the chicken instead of slow cooking, incorporate smoked paprika more generously, and add roasted corn and black beans as additional taco toppings for a robust southwestern feel.

Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce FAQs

• What makes the chimichurri sauce special in this recipe?

The chimichurri sauce is a unique blend of fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, combined with tangy red wine vinegar and creamy mayonnaise. This combination creates a vibrant, zesty sauce that elevates the shredded chicken tacos with a burst of fresh flavor.

• Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes to the chimichurri sauce or include diced jalapeños in the taco filling. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce on top for an extra kick of heat.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! The shredded chicken and chimichurri sauce can be prepared in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator. This makes it easy to assemble quick and delicious tacos during the week, saving you time and effort.

• What if I don't have an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

No worries! You can cook the chicken in a regular pot on the stovetop. Simmer the chicken in broth with the spices until it’s fully cooked and easily shreddable, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes.

Shredded Chicken Tacos With Creamy Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling Mexican street-style shredded chicken tacos dance with zesty chimichurri’s bold flavors, creating a mouthwatering culinary adventure. Crisp tortillas cradle tender, spice-infused chicken, promising you a delectable journey through authentic Latin American cuisine.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco (or shredded cheese)

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Other Ingredients:

• ½ cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 cup fresh parsley (packed)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (packed)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Immerse the chicken breasts in a slow cooker or instant pot, generously coating them with a robust blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth or water, ensuring the meat is well-covered.
2. For slow cooker, set on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours. In an instant pot, utilize the poultry setting or pressure cook on high for 10 minutes until the chicken is perfectly tender and easily separates.
3. Extract the cooked chicken and meticulously shred using two forks, allowing the meat to absorb the flavorful cooking juices for enhanced taste and moisture.
4. Prepare the chimichurri sauce by combining fresh parsley, vibrant cilantro, tangy red wine vinegar, aromatic garlic, and optional red pepper flakes in a food processor or blender.
5. Pulse the herbs and spices until finely chopped, then gradually stream olive oil while blending to create a smooth, cohesive mixture.
6. Incorporate mayonnaise or Greek yogurt into the sauce, stirring until a creamy consistency develops. Season with salt and pepper to achieve a balanced flavor profile.
7. Gently warm tortillas in a skillet or microwave to enhance their pliability and subtle toasted notes.
8. Construct the tacos by layering shredded chicken, drizzling the creamy chimichurri sauce, and topping with crisp shredded lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, and crumbled queso fresco.
9. Serve immediately, accompanied by zesty lime wedges to elevate the dish with a bright, citrusy finish.

Notes

• Boost chicken tenderness by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the cooking liquid, which helps break down proteins and creates incredibly soft meat.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes in chimichurri sauce, allowing guests to control spiciness according to their preference.
• Transform this recipe into a low-carb option by replacing tortillas with lettuce wraps or serving over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
• Maximize flavor by letting shredded chicken marinate in its cooking juices for 10-15 minutes before assembling tacos, allowing seasonings to deeply penetrate the meat.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg