Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos
Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos combine tender, juicy smashed chicken with the refreshing crunch and tangy flavor of classic Caesar salad, all wrapped in warm, soft tortillas. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, offering customizable options and a delightful handheld meal packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 tacos 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Salad and Toppings
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/4 cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: croutons or bacon bits, as desired
Tortillas
- 4 flour or corn tortillas
Additional Flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Prepare the Chicken: Start with skinless, boneless chicken breasts. Pound them gently between two sheets of plastic wrap until about half an inch thick to ensure even cooking and easy smashing. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Smash and Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Place the chicken breasts into the pan and use a spatula or heavy utensil to press down firmly, smashing the meat slightly to increase surface contact. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest briefly, then slice or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the Caesar Salad: While the chicken cooks, toss chopped romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Use just enough dressing to coat the lettuce lightly, preserving the classic tang and richness without sogginess.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over the stove flame until warm and pliable, making them easier to fold and enhancing their flavor.
- Assemble the Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos: Layer the warmed tortillas with a handful of Caesar salad, then generously top with smashed chicken pieces. Add croutons or bacon bits if desired for extra crunch and smoky flavor. Finish by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the top, then fold the tortillas and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure even chicken thickness by pounding to guarantee quick, consistent cooking and perfect smash texture.
- Use fresh romaine lettuce to keep the crunch intact and avoid wilting.
- Do not overdress the salad to prevent soggy tacos; keep dressing light and balanced.
- Warm tortillas properly to prevent cracking or breaking when folding.
- Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to maintain juiciness and tenderness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos, chicken tacos, Caesar salad tacos, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, healthy tacos, family-friendly meal