Baked Ground Chicken Tacos

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Every now and then, you come across a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. These Baked Ground Chicken Tacos are just that! Packed with flavor, they are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, featuring juicy ground chicken, vibrant veggies, and a blend of spices that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to impress!

Reasons to Love Baked Ground Chicken Tacos

There are countless reasons to adore these Baked Ground Chicken Tacos. Here are a few that stand out:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: A delicious combination of spices that elevate the chicken.
• Customizable: Top with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.
• Healthy Option: Ground chicken is leaner than beef, making this a lighter choice.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and interactive meal that little ones love to build themselves.

What’s in the Bowl

To make these scrumptious Baked Ground Chicken Tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, small diced
• 1 green bell pepper, cored and small diced
• 1 (15-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (8-ounce) can diced green chiles
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 12 crunchy/hard corn taco shells
• 3/4 cup shredded cheese
• Minced white onion, optional, for topping
• Minced cilantro, optional, for topping
• Thinly sliced radish, optional, for topping

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following tools:

• Large Skillet: Ideal for cooking the ground chicken and veggies.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the chicken.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Baking Dish: To hold the taco shells and filling while baking.

Method: Baked Ground Chicken Tacos

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your Baked Ground Chicken Tacos.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your tacos get nice and crispy when baked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground chicken. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it starts to brown.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Next, add in the minced garlic, diced onion, and green bell pepper. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, diced green chiles, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, kosher salt, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and let it cook for 5 more minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

In a baking dish, arrange the taco shells. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into each shell, and top with shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the taco shells are crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the tacos cool for a minute. Top with minced white onion, cilantro, and sliced radish if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Baked Ground Chicken Tacos!

Tailor It to Your Diet

These Baked Ground Chicken Tacos are versatile and can be easily modified to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free taco shells or lettuce wraps instead.
• Vegetarian: Substitute ground chicken with cooked lentils or black beans.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Carb: Opt for taco bowls using cauliflower rice instead of shells.

Flavor Logic

The beauty of these Baked Ground Chicken Tacos lies in their flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating a well-balanced dish:

• Ground Chicken: A lean protein that absorbs the surrounding flavors beautifully.
• Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall taste.
• Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and cayenne provide warmth and complexity.
• Fresh Toppings: Minced onion and cilantro bring freshness and brightness to each bite.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the cooked filling separately from the taco shells for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Questions People Ask

Can I use beef instead of chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to substitute ground beef for the ground chicken. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.

How can I make these tacos spicier?

If you like heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also top with jalapeños for an extra kick!

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These tacos are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the filling ahead of time and simply assemble and bake the tacos when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with these tacos?

Consider pairing your Baked Ground Chicken Tacos with a refreshing side salad, guacamole, or even a delicious Hamburger Quesadilla for a fun twist!

Desserts to Finish

No meal is complete without a sweet ending! Here are some delightful dessert ideas to complement your Baked Ground Chicken Tacos:

• Churros with Chocolate Sauce
• Mexican Flan
• Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tools, ingredients, and tips, it’s time to whip up a batch of these Baked Ground Chicken Tacos. Whether it’s a casual dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dig into these flavorful tacos that are sure to become a staple in your household!

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