Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos

Name: Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 medium onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 corn tortillas; Vegetable oil for frying; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos are a delicious twist on traditional tacos, featuring tender chicken simmered in a smoky chipotle sauce and served in crispy corn tortillas.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T20:17:52.999Z

Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos are perfect for weeknight dinners or hosting friends. The combination of flavors from the chipotle sauce and the crispy texture of the tortillas creates a satisfying meal that will impress everyone!

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Crispy tortillas that provide a delightful crunch
Smoky and spicy chipotle flavor that brings excitement to every bite
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights or gatherings

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. The chicken tinga is cooked to perfection, with each bite bursting with the rich, smoky essence of chipotle. This dish is not just about the chicken; the combination of spices like cumin and oregano adds a layer of depth, making it irresistible.

The use of fresh ingredients, such as onions and tomatoes, enhances the overall flavor profile, providing a balance to the spiciness of the chipotle. When you combine this savory filling with crispy corn tortillas, you create a taco that is both satisfying and exciting. Every bite offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy shell and the tender chicken.

A Quick and Easy Meal

One of the standout features of Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, these tacos are perfect for gatherings and parties. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a crowd. Set up a taco bar with all the fixings, and let your guests build their own tacos. It's a fun and interactive way to serve food that everyone will enjoy.

Customization and Variations

Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos are versatile, allowing for plenty of customization to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add toppings such as avocado, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different salsas or sauces to find your perfect flavor combination.

For those looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider using baked tortillas instead of fried ones. You can achieve a crispy texture by brushing them with a little oil and baking them in the oven. This way, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of chicken tinga tacos with a lighter twist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tinga

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 medium onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

8 corn tortillas
Vegetable oil for frying
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Tinga

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.

Fry the Tortillas

In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each crispy tortilla with the chicken tinga mixture. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, serve these Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. These traditional sides complement the flavors of the tacos and add heartiness to the meal. You can also include a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

For drinks, consider pairing your tacos with a refreshing margarita or a cold cerveza. The citrus notes of a margarita can help cut through the richness, while a cold beer offers a perfect contrast to the spicy and smoky flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken tinga separately from the tortillas to keep them crisp. Place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. The tortillas can be kept at room temperature, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the chicken tinga on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. For the tortillas, you can quickly fry them again to restore their crispy texture. This way, you can enjoy your delicious tacos just as much as the first time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute shredded beef or pork for the chicken if you prefer.

→ How can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Ensure to use gluten-free corn tortillas and check all sauces for gluten content.

→ Can I prepare the chicken tinga in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tinga a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What toppings can I add to these tacos?

You can add toppings like avocado, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.