BBQ pulled chicken tacos

Tex-Mex at its best

We’ve got another delicious recipe from the Tex-Mex kitchen for you.

Earlier we shared our favorite fish tacos with a fresh lime sauce, and this time we’re going for something that’s just as good: BBQ pulled chicken tacos. The great thing about this dish is that you can serve it on a busy weeknight or at a party. It comes together quickly, it’s very versatile, and everyone can build their own taco just the way they like it. What’s not to love?

A little taco history

Tacos are everywhere these days, but their roots are, of course, in Mexico. The word “taco” was already used in the 18th century and simply refers to a filled tortilla. Over time, tacos became more and more popular in the United States, especially within Tex-Mex cooking.

That’s where they took on their own character with ingredients like barbecue sauce, cheddar, and sour cream. This mix of Mexican traditions and American influences is exactly what made tacos so popular around the world.

Pulled chicken, tender and full of flavor

The base of this recipe is, of course, the pulled chicken. We use chicken breasts, which we cook gently until they are so tender that you can easily pull them apart with two forks. Chicken breast has a mild flavor, which makes it perfect for soaking up the barbecue sauce. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer.

Once the chicken is mixed with the barbecue sauce, it takes on a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that pairs really well with the fresh toppings and creamy additions. Feel free to use a good store bought barbecue sauce, but if you have the time you can also make a simple version yourself with ketchup, brown sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of paprika and cayenne.

The perfect base

For these tacos we like to use mini tortillas. They’re easy to eat with your hands and perfect for mixing and matching toppings. We start with a thin layer of sour cream, which adds a creamy and slightly tangy base. Next comes a layer of crisp iceberg lettuce for some crunch, followed by diced tomatoes and slices of soft avocado. This way you get a nice balance of fresh, creamy, and savory flavors.

The finishing touch

Of course the pulled chicken itself is the star of the show, generously spooned over the tortillas. On top of that we sprinkle shredded cheddar, which melts slightly from the warmth of the chicken. For a little heat we add sliced jalapeños, but if you prefer something milder you can swap them for bell pepper or simply leave them out. To finish, we add some finely chopped parsley and serve the tacos with a wedge of lime to squeeze over the top. It gives every bite a fresh lift.

Serve and enjoy

These BBQ pulled chicken tacos are perfect for sharing with friends or family. Put all the toppings in small bowls on the table and let everyone build their own taco. It makes dinner more relaxed and a lot more fun. You can also serve them with a little extra sour cream and some guacamole on the side for good measure.

With these tacos you bring a bit of Tex-Mex into your kitchen. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and always a hit. Whether you serve them for dinner, at a casual gathering, or on a weeknight, these tacos show that a few simple ingredients can turn into something really special.

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