Transform your taco nights with this irresistible Stewed Chicken Taco Meat recipe, where tender, slow-simmered chicken thighs soak up bold, smoky flavors in a rich, tomato-based sauce. Infused with a robust blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika, this dish offers a deliciously seasoned filling thatβs both comforting and full of character. Finished with a splash of fresh lime juice for a zesty kick, this versatile recipe pairs perfectly with warm tortillas and all your favorite taco toppings, from creamy avocado to tangy salsa. Ready in under an hour, this crowd-pleasing meal is perfect for a casual dinner or festive taco bar.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sautΓ© for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
Add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
Place the chicken thighs into the pan, turning to coat them in the spice mixture.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Remove the chicken from the pan and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Return the shredded chicken to the pan and stir to combine it with the sauce.
Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice just before serving.
Serve the stewed chicken taco meat in warm tortillas and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Pair with your favorite taco toppings like avocado, cheese, or salsa.
Calories |
1882 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 104.8 g | 134% | |
| Saturated Fat | 24.9 g | 124% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 850 mg | 284% | |
| Sodium | 4366 mg | 190% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 42.8 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.7 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.0 g | ||
| Protein | 187.3 g | 375% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 274 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 13.3 mg | 74% | |
| Potassium | 2967 mg | 63% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.