Description
These Crispy Poblano Chicken Tacos are smoky, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. The juicy chicken is roasted with poblano peppers and onions, then stuffed into crispy tortillas and topped with a creamy avocado-jalapeño salsa. A perfect recipe for taco nights, family dinners, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Tacos:
- 1½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 2 poblano peppers, deseeded and diced
- 1 small white onion, thinly sliced
- 6–8 corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Cooking spray
For the Avocado-Jalapeño Salsa:
- 1 large avocado
- 1 medium jalapeño, deseeded and roughly chopped
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional for Serving:
- Shredded lettuce
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Salsa: Blend avocado, jalapeño, water, cilantro, white vinegar, and salt until smooth. Chill.
- Cook Chicken and Veggies: Roast seasoned chicken thighs with poblano peppers, onions, and spices at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes. Shred chicken in the baking dish and mix with veggies.
- Prepare Tortillas: Warm corn tortillas at 425°F (220°C) for 2–3 minutes until pliable.
- Assemble Tacos: Layer tortillas with cheese, chicken mixture, and more cheese. Fold and press gently.
- Bake Tacos: Bake assembled tacos for 8–10 minutes until crispy and cheese melts. Flip for extra crispiness.
- Serve: Drizzle with salsa and garnish with lettuce and lime.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prep chicken filling and salsa up to 2 days in advance.
- Cheese Options: Swap Monterey Jack with cheddar or a Mexican blend.
- Spice Level: Add extra jalapeños or hot sauce for more heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with roasted sweet potatoes or black beans.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Mexican-Inspired
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired