How to Make the Best Chicken Tinga Tacos

Chicken Tinga Tacos are a delightful blend of shredded chicken simmered in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce, traditionally served in tortillas and topped with your favorite garnishes.

Originating from Puebla, Mexico, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and is surprisingly simple to prepare. Here’s how to make the best Chicken Tinga Tacos.

Ingredients

• For the Tinga:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Tacos:
  • Corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Diced onions
  • Crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced avocado
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Blend the Sauce:
   • In a blender, combine the diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
3. Cook the Chicken Tinga:
   • Pour the blended sauce into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
   • Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
   • Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
   • Spoon a generous amount of the chicken tinga onto each tortilla.
   • Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese, and avocado slices.
   • Drizzle with sour cream or Mexican crema and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for the Best Chicken Tinga Tacos

• Adjust Spiciness: Control the heat by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
• Make Ahead: The chicken tinga can be made in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
• Customize Toppings: Personalize your tacos with your favorite toppings, such as pickled onions, radishes, or shredded lettuce.

Enjoy these flavorful Chicken Tinga Tacos, a perfect combination of smoky, spicy, and savory elements wrapped in a warm tortilla.

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