Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos: Quick Macro-Friendly Recipe
Hey there, taco lovers! I’m here to whisk you away on a flavor adventure that proves fast food can be both fabulous and fit.
As a chef and nutritionist who’s explored kitchens around the world and dedicated more hours to fitness than most spend shopping for food, I’ve mastered the art of turning guilty pleasures into healthful delights
Today, I’m thrilled to share my latest creation: Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos.
Trust me, these aren’t your average tacos—packed with mouth-watering goodness and ready in a flash, they’re designed to boost your health and tickle your taste buds without tying you to the kitchen!
Curious about what makes these tacos a game-changer in your diet? Let’s dive into the health benefits of each ingredient and discover how every bite brings you closer to your fitness goals.
Ingredients and their health benefits
Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun, especially when it comes to tacos. Let’s break down the key ingredients in our Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos and explore the powerful punch each one packs for your health.
Chicken breast
Chicken is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and for those balancing time between the kitchen and the gym. Opting for chicken breast in this recipe ensures a lean protein source that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
Avocado
Avocados are a great addition. They are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, aiding digestion and heart health.
Greek Yogurt
Using Greek yogurt instead of traditional sour cream cuts calories while boosting protein content, adding a dose of gut-friendly probiotics.
Vegetables
- Bell Peppers and Red Onions: Both add crunch and color, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation.
- Tomatoes: Freshly diced in the salsa, tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K, known for heart health benefits.
- Lettuce, Cabbage, or Spinach: These greens are not only for texture but also pack vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them excellent for digestion and overall health.
- Cilantro: helps detoxify the body with its antioxidants, while lime adds a zest that provides vitamin C, essential for immune defense and skin health.
Adding a kick to the yogurt sauce, sriracha can boost metabolism and aid in weight loss due to the capsaicin found in chili peppers.
Each ingredient in this recipe not only enhances the flavor but also contributes significant health benefits, making these tacos a wholesome choice for any meal. Next, let’s dive into the detailed step-by-step preparation of these delightful tacos.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos
Creating a nutritious and mouth-watering meal doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Let’s get into the step-by-step guide to preparing your Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos, full of fresh veggies and a tangy, spicy sauce that will bring everyone to the table in no time!
Before you begin, make sure to have all your ingredients and tools within reach. I consider this the essential first step—step zero—in any recipe I create.
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Slice the chicken
Start by slicing 300g of chicken breast into short strips. There is no right or wrong way just chop it up and toss it into a bowl.
Season the Chicken
You can use your favorite seasoning or rub for this recipe. For my spice mix, I use – 3g of smoked paprika, 3g of dried garlic, 3g of ground coriander, 3g of ground cumin, and 1g of chili powder. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over high heat. Once piping hot, add the seasoned chicken slices. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. The thin slices will help speed up cooking while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl and let it rest. Meanwhile…
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Toppings
While the chicken cooks, prepare your veggies. Dice 50g each of tomatoes, red onions, and red peppers. These add not just crunch but a burst of fresh flavors and a load of nutrients.
Slice the peppers
Start by slicing 50g of pepper into short strips called Julienne. There is no right or wrong way just chop it up and toss it into a bowl, but If you do want to learn all the ways how to slice a pepper be sure to check out my post.
Chop the onion
Thinly slice 30g of red onion into short strips. There is no right or wrong way just chop it up and toss it into a bowl. Guess what – I have a guide on how to chop an onion too!
Shred the spinach
Roughly chop up your green leaf for that nutrition boost. It can be cabbage, lettuce or in my case I’m using spinach.
Slice the avocado
Spoon out half of the avocado and slice it thinly.
Toss everything into a bowl
Now put all the vegetables in the bowl and give them a light season of salt and pepper and give them a toss.
You should end up with a vibrant-looking vegetable salad you can use not just in tacos but also on your omelet or as a midday snack
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
Now all you have to do is to assemble these bad boys. Get everything at hand, so you are ready to build this masterpiece.
Warm the Tacos
Heat your small corn tortillas (or flour if you prefer) in an oven until they are warm and crunchy – about a minute or so.
Start with meat
Lay the warm tortillas on a plate, spread strips of the cooked chicken at the bottom.
Top it Up
Then place your vegetable salad on top
Dip It
Then spoon on a generous spoon of secret sauce and bite in…
Continue reading to learn how to make a sauce that is healthy and also very delicious.
The Secret Sauce
This sauce will be creamy with a kick, perfectly complementing the spices in your tacos. The best part is it’s a healthy alternative to sugary condiments and is really easy to make.
In a small bowl, combine 100g Greek yogurt, 40g sriracha, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, season with salt, pepper, and dried garlic, give it a swirl and the sauce is ready.
Chicken Tacos With creamy sauce
Course: Snacks, Brunch, LunchCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy2
servings10
minutes10
minutes320
kcalThese tacos offer simple, tasty options for casual dining, perfectly suited for quick meals or gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
6 small corn or flour tortillas
300g chicken breast, thinly sliced
15ml olive oil, for cooking
1g chili powder
3g dried garlic
3g ground coriander
3g ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
50g spinach or shredded lettuce or cabbage
50g cucumber
50g sweet red pepper
50g avocado
30g red onions
Optional: 50g shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Optional garnishes: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, lime wedges
- Secret sauce
100g Greek yogurt
40g sriracha
Squeeze of lemon or lime juice
Finely chopped fresh cilantro or any other herb
Salt and pepper
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over high heat. Season the sliced chicken with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the pan and sauté until it’s cooked through and slightly caramelized, about 3-5 minutes.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare your veggies. Dice tomatoes, red onions, and red peppers. Shred your spinach and slice the avocado. Toss everything into a bowl and lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Heat your small corn tortillas (or flour if you prefer) in an oven until they are warm and crunchy – about a minute or so.
- Assemble the tacos! Lay the warm tortillas on a plate, and spread strips of the cooked chicken at the bottom. Then place your vegetable salad on top. Then spoon on a generous spoon of secret sauce.
- You can garnish it with some grated cheese but it is totally optional it will taste great without it.
Notes
- These are great to meal prep, eating them hot or cold. On the next day you can toss them in oven with a bit of grated cheese on top, for a quick lunch.
Customization Ideas
Flexibility is key in any recipe, especially when it caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Here are some customization options for your Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos:
- Protein Variations: Not a fan of chicken? Substitute with grilled fish, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Low-Carb Solutions: Swap out corn tortillas for lettuce wraps for an even healthier version that cuts down on carbs.
- Dairy-Free Modifications: Use a dairy-free yogurt or skip the cheese to cater to those with dairy restrictions.
FAQ about chicken tacos
What does a chicken taco contain?
A chicken taco typically contains grilled or cooked chicken as the main protein, along with a variety of toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa, all nestled in a soft or crispy tortilla.
What goes well with tacos?
Tacos pair well with a variety of sides like rice, beans, corn, guacamole, and a fresh salad. Don’t forget some zesty lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra flavor boost!
What are the layers of a taco?
The basic layers of a taco start with the tortilla, followed by the protein (like chicken), and then various toppings and sauces. The order can vary based on personal preference, but typically, the heavier or wet ingredients like meat are at the bottom.
What do you put on tacos?
Common taco toppings include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, cheese, cilantro, and a variety of salsas or creams like guacamole or sour cream. Each ingredient can be customized according to taste and dietary preferences.
What traditionally comes on a taco?
Traditionally, a taco might come with seasoned meat (like chicken, beef, or pork), cilantro, chopped onions, and a sprinkle of lime juice. Variations might include the addition of jalapeños, salsa verde, or pico de gallo.
What’s the difference between chicken fajitas and chicken tacos?
Chicken fajitas typically consist of grilled chicken that’s cooked with sliced onions and bell peppers and served on a sizzling plate, often with tortillas and toppings on the side. Chicken tacos usually have the chicken and toppings pre-assembled in the tortilla.
What to serve with chicken tacos?
Great side dishes for chicken tacos include Mexican rice, refried beans, a tangy coleslaw, or a fresh corn salad. For a lighter option, consider a cucumber salad or grilled vegetables.
Wrap-Up: Dive Into Deliciousness One Bite at a Time!
That wraps up our journey through the scrumptious world of Fast & Fit Chicken Tacos. This recipe not only promises a feast of flavors but also aligns perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle. It’s about making each meal count, nourishing your body, and savoring every bite—yes, one bite at a time!
I hope you feel inspired to try out this recipe and perhaps even put your own twist on it. Remember, the best part about cooking is making each dish uniquely yours. And if you’re hungry for more tasty and nutritious recipes, don’t forget to check out my other chicken recipes on the blog. There’s plenty more to explore and enjoy!
If you liked what you read and cooked, share the love! Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps others discover great recipes. For more culinary adventures and wellness tips, keep following my blog.
Together, let’s continue transforming our health and palate, one bite at a time!
