Chipotle Chicken Tacos (One-Skillet Recipe)

These Chipotle Chicken Tacos are bold, saucy, and ready in under 30 minutes—all in one skillet! No store-bought taco mixes needed, just pantry staples and a zesty homemade seasoning that packs a flavor punch. Perfect for taco night, casual dinners, or whenever a craving strikes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 18

Total Time 28

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, LUNCH

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

700 g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless or substitute chicken breast if preferred
1.5 tbsp olive oil for searing
2 tbsp tomato paste adds depth and richness
2 tsp sugar balances acidity
250 ml chicken broth divided, to build the sauce

For the Homemade Taco Seasoning

3 tbsp fresh lime juice use freshly squeezed
1 tbsp olive oil helps form a paste
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
2 tsp dried oregano
3 tsp ground cumin
3 tsp sweet paprika
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper optional, adjust to taste
1 tsp sea salt
0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Method

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix all taco seasoning ingredients. Stir in 2 tbsp of chicken broth to form a paste.
Step 2: Coat the chicken thighs in the paste. Set aside while prepping the skillet.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken for 3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add remaining broth, tomato paste, sugar, and leftover marinade. Simmer and stir well.
Step 5: Shred the chicken with two forks while the sauce simmers.
Step 6: Return chicken to skillet and coat in sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Serve hot in tortillas with toppings of choice.

Notes

To keep it mild, omit cayenne pepper. Add ¼ cup more broth if you want a saucier finish. This recipe doubles easily for meal prep or gatherings. Warm tortillas before serving for best texture.