Cheesy Pulled Chicken Tacos: The Ultimate Recipe for Taco Night

Cheesy Pulled Chicken Tacos: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, soft tortilla overflowing with tender, juicy pulled chicken, smothered in a blanket of melted, gooey cheese. Sounds divine, right? These aren’t just any tacos; they’re a flavor explosion that will have you craving them again and again.

Tacos, in general, have a rich history rooted in Mexican culture, evolving from simple street food to a globally beloved dish. While the exact origins of pulled chicken tacos are harder to pinpoint, they represent a delicious fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary creativity. The beauty of tacos lies in their versatility – you can customize them with endless variations of fillings and toppings.

What makes cheesy pulled chicken tacos so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The savory, slow-cooked chicken, the creamy, melted cheese, and the satisfying crunch of your favorite toppings create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, these tacos are a guaranteed hit. The ease of preparation and the customizable nature of the recipe make it a winner for busy families and adventurous foodies alike. Get ready to experience taco perfection!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind!)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• For the Tacos:
• 12 corn or flour tortillas (6-inch size)
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, pickled jalapeños

Preparing the Pulled Chicken:

Okay, let’s get started with the star of the show – the pulled chicken! This is where all the delicious flavor begins. Don’t worry, it’s super easy, especially if you have a slow cooker or Instant Pot.

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): While this step is optional, I highly recommend searing the chicken breasts for a few minutes on each side. This adds a beautiful color and locks in some extra flavor. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet (or in your slow cooker/Instant Pot), add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Combine Ingredients: If you seared the chicken in the skillet, leave it in there. If not, place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Add the diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), taco seasoning, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Slow Cooker Instructions: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is easily shredded with a fork.
5. Instant Pot Instructions: Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker or Instant Pot and shred it with two forks.
7. Return to Sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the sauce in the slow cooker or Instant Pot. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for maximum flavor absorption!
8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chicken and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or BBQ sauce to your liking.

Making the Cheesy Sauce:

Now, let’s move on to the cheesy goodness! This cheese sauce is what takes these tacos from good to AMAZING. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think!

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the Flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Make sure to cook out the raw flour taste!
3. Gradually Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This is important! Add the milk in a steady stream, whisking vigorously.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Add Seasonings: Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These seasonings add depth and complexity to the cheese sauce.
6. Melt the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure the cheese is fully melted before moving on!
7. Keep Warm: If you’re not ready to assemble the tacos immediately, keep the cheese sauce warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. You can also place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce to prevent a skin.

Assembling the Cheesy Pulled Chicken Tacos:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to put everything together and enjoy these mouthwatering tacos. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

1. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in the oven. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking.
2. Fill the Tortillas: Spoon a generous amount of the cheesy pulled chicken into each tortilla. Don’t be shy!
3. Top with Cheese Sauce: Drizzle even more of that glorious cheese sauce over the chicken. Yes, you read that right – MORE cheese sauce!
4. Add Toppings (Optional): Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, and pickled jalapeños. Get creative and customize your tacos to your liking!
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the tacos immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce or the pulled chicken for an extra kick.
• Cream Cheese: For an even creamier cheese sauce, add 2-4 ounces of softened cream cheese along with the cheddar and Monterey Jack.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese in the cheese sauce, such as pepper jack, Colby jack, or even a little bit of Gruyere.
• Slow Cooker/Instant Pot Liners: Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot liner for easy cleanup.
• Make Ahead: The pulled chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the tacos. The cheese sauce is best made fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with black beans or shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian version.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these tacos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy these Cheesy Pulled Chicken Tacos as much as I do! They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner, a party, or any occasion where you want a delicious and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to share your creations with me – I love seeing your photos! Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Cheesy Pulled Chicken Tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying dinner. The combination of tender, flavorful pulled chicken, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings nestled in a warm tortilla is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to faces and has everyone asking for seconds.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Short on time? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep. Want to add some heat? Throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Need a healthier option? Opt for whole wheat tortillas and load up on the veggies. The possibilities are endless!

But the real magic lies in the simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. No fancy techniques or complicated steps required. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a fun family taco night.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! While I love the classic combination of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream, there are so many other options to explore. Consider adding:

* Guacamole or sliced avocado: For a creamy and healthy addition.
* Pico de gallo: For a fresh and zesty kick.
* Pickled onions: For a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
* Jalapeños: For those who like a little heat.
* Corn salsa: For a sweet and crunchy texture.
* A drizzle of lime crema: For extra richness and flavor.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is a classic choice, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of Mexican cheeses would work beautifully. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try grilling the tacos for a few minutes to get the cheese extra melty and the tortillas slightly crispy.

Another fun variation is to use the pulled chicken in other dishes. It’s fantastic in quesadillas, nachos, or even as a topping for salads. You can also use it to make a delicious chicken burrito bowl. Simply layer rice, beans, pulled chicken, and your favorite toppings in a bowl for a complete and satisfying meal.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I truly believe that these Cheesy Pulled Chicken Tacos will become a new family favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!

Once you’ve made these amazing tacos, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review on the recipe page. I’m always eager to see your creations and hear about any variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking!