Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos

Name: Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 corn tortillas; Oil for frying; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos are a delightful fusion of crunchy textures and rich flavors, perfect for any taco night.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-18T21:25:49.010Z

These Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos bring together the smoky flavors of chipotle and the crunch of perfectly fried chicken. They're a hit at gatherings and a comforting meal for any day of the week.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture that adds a satisfying crunch
Flavorful chicken with a smoky chipotle kick
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings

      

The Perfect Taco Night Treat

Tacos are a staple in many households, and for good reason. They are versatile, allowing for a wide range of fillings and toppings that cater to various tastes. Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos elevate this classic dish with a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures. The crispy tortillas provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoky, tender chicken tinga. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings everyone together around the table.

One of the best aspects of these tacos is their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can whip up a delicious feast that feels special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos fit right in, making them an excellent choice for any occasion. Plus, they are easy to customize, allowing everyone to build their own perfect taco.

Smoky and Flavorful Chicken Tinga

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the chicken tinga. By simmering chicken thighs with onions, garlic, and chipotle peppers, you create a rich and smoky flavor profile that is hard to resist. Chipotle peppers add a warm heat that complements the savory chicken, while the chicken broth helps to keep the meat moist and tender. This combination ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Shredding the chicken after cooking allows it to absorb all the flavors from the cooking liquid, resulting in a dish that is both juicy and full of depth. The additional simmering time after shredding helps meld the flavors even further, making the chicken perfectly seasoned and ready to shine in your tacos.

Crispy Tortilla Magic

Frying the tortillas is a simple step that makes a world of difference in texture. While store-bought tortillas can work in a pinch, frying fresh corn tortillas gives them a delightful crunch that enhances the overall taco experience. The golden-brown color and crispy edges provide a perfect vessel for the chicken tinga and toppings.

To achieve the best results, make sure to heat the oil to the right temperature. The tortillas should sizzle when they hit the oil, which helps create that crispy exterior. Frying them for just the right amount of time ensures they do not become too hard or greasy, maintaining the perfect balance for your taco night.

Ingredients

Chicken Tinga

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

8 corn tortillas
Oil for frying
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for the best experience.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, combine chicken thighs, onion, garlic, chipotle peppers, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Fry the Tortillas

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry each 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, top with shredded lettuce, queso fresco, and garnish with cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken tinga, you’re in luck! It stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for days to come. Simply place it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.

As for the tortillas, it's best to fry them fresh for the best texture. However, if you have any leftover tortillas, you can store them in a sealed bag at room temperature for a short time. To revive their crispiness, simply reheat them in a skillet before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Consider serving them with a fresh corn salad or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal. The bright flavors of a simple avocado salsa also complement the smoky chicken beautifully.

For drinks, a refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer can enhance your taco night experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try serving agua fresca or lime-infused sparkling water for a zesty touch that perfectly balances the richness of the tacos.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of tacos is their adaptability. Feel free to customize your Crispy Chicken Tinga Tacos with your favorite toppings. Avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or pickled red onions can add a fresh twist. For those who love extra heat, consider drizzling some hot sauce or adding jalapeños.

If you're looking to make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for jackfruit or mushrooms simmered in the same flavorful sauce for a delicious alternative. These customizations allow you to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may result in a drier texture.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more chipotle peppers or include some jalapeños in the chicken mixture.

→ Can I prepare the chicken tinga in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the chicken tinga a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for queso fresco?

Feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese can be a good alternative.