Mexican Chicken Strips for Tacos
Delicious Mexican-style chicken strips perfect for filling tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2cupschicken fillet (strips)
- 2tbspvegetable oil
- 2cupsMexican sauce
- 2tbspcoriander leaves
- Salt & pepper to taste
Mexican Sauce
- 1cuponion (finely chopped)
- 2cupschopped tomatoes (tinned)
- 1tspgarlic (minced)
- 1tbspfresh jalapeno (finely chopped)
- 1tsporegano (fresh or dried)
- 1 1/2tbspcumin (ground)
- 1tbspcocoa powder
- 3tbspvegetable oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
465.0kcal (23.25%)
Protein
32.5g (65%)
Carbs
30.0g (10.91%)
Sugars
3.8g (7.5%)
Healthy Fat
12.6g
Unhealthy Fat
5.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Mexican Chicken Strips for Tacos
Mexican Sauce
Heat a saucepan and add the vegetable oil. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add the jalapeno and cumin. Sauté for about 1 minute.
Add the oregano, chopped tomatoes, and garlic. Turn down the heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the cocoa powder, salt, and pepper. Mix and continue to simmer.
Add a little water to loosen up the sauce and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
Blend the sauce until semi-smooth with a stick blender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set the sauce aside.
Chicken
Heat a medium pan to smoking hot and add the vegetable oil.
Add the chicken strips and brown on all sides, but do not cook through. Brown the chicken in batches and season with salt and pepper.
Return all browned chicken to a larger pan and pour the sauce over. Add a little more water if the sauce is too thick.
Simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and infused with the sauce.
Use the Mexican chicken to fill tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas. Garnish with coriander.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
465.0kcal (23.25%)
Protein
32.5g (65%)
Carbs
30.0g (10.91%)
Sugars
3.8g (7.5%)
Healthy Fat
12.6g
Unhealthy Fat
5.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken strips in lime juice and spices before cooking.
Adjust the spiciness of the sauce by adding more or less jalapeno.
FAQS
How do I make Mexican chicken strips for tacos from scratch?
To make Mexican chicken strips for tacos, start by sautéing onions in vegetable oil until golden brown. Add jalapeno and cumin, then mix in oregano, chopped tomatoes, and garlic. Simmer for about 15 minutes, blending the sauce until semi-smooth. In a separate pan, brown chicken strips in oil, then combine with the sauce and simmer until fully cooked. Serve in tacos, fajitas, or enchiladas.
Are these Mexican chicken strips suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, these Mexican chicken strips are gluten-free as they do not contain any wheat-based ingredients. Just ensure that the Mexican sauce you use is also gluten-free, as some sauces may contain gluten. This makes them a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.
What can I substitute for chicken in this Mexican chicken strips recipe?
If you're looking for a substitute for chicken in this recipe, you can use firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. For a different flavor, try using shrimp or beef strips. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these proteins may require different cooking times.
How should I store leftover Mexican chicken strips?
To store leftover Mexican chicken strips, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What are some good side dishes to pair with Mexican chicken strips?
Mexican chicken strips pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad. You can also add a side of guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete meal. Don't forget to garnish with fresh coriander for added flavor!
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Anna Middleton
(@chefanna)
I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I am self-taught and have an extreme passion for various international cuisines. I have fallen in love with teaching others the skills that I have learnt, inspiring them through creative cooking. I have been a professional South African chef for 18 years, now teaching kids & adults how to cook by using their instincts. I...
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