Skinny Baja Chicken Tacos – Recipe and Instructions

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These healthy chicken tacos are FULL of flavor and low in fat — it’s the skinny taco recipe you’ve been searching for and will be your “go-to” Taco Tuesday recipe!

I would have to say Mexican cuisine is probably my favorite. And until recently, I could only enjoy seafood dishes as I was a pescetarian for 10 years. But since returning to a full carnivorous diet, I can now indulge in all sorts of delectable Mexican dishes.

It takes about 15–20 minutes each, so why not make both?😉

Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema

These grilled chicken tacos are quick, flavorful, and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. The smoky, spiced chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh crunch of cabbage, creamy avocado, and a tangy lime yogurt crema. Serve these tacos with a side of rice or chips and salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine International, Mexican
Servings 2 2 tacos each
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or grill pan
  • 1 Tongs
  • 1 Mixing bowls
  • 1 Measuring spoons
  • 1 Sharp knife
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 small corn tortillas (or low-carb tortillas)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for healthier crema)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño
  • thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 avocado sliced
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the skillet
    Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to the pan.
  • Prepare the chicken
    While the pan heats, season the chicken breasts with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices into the chicken to coat evenly.
  • Cook the chicken
    Place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Make the yogurt crema
    In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and lime juice until smooth. Add a pinch of salt, and set aside.
  • Assemble the tacos
    After the chicken has rested, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Warm the tortillas in the skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with a portion of shredded chicken, cabbage, cilantro, avocado slices, and jalapeño slices (if using).
  • Top it off
    Drizzle the tacos with the lime yogurt crema, and serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.

Video

Notes

  • Marinade option: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix and olive oil for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
  • Grilling alternative: You can grill the chicken on an outdoor grill for added smokiness.
  • Make it spicier: Add more jalapeños or use a hotter chili powder for extra heat.
  • Tortilla hack: If using corn tortillas, toast them lightly in the skillet for extra crispness and flavor.
Keyword Diet, Grilled Chicken, Light meals, Lime Crema, Skinny tacos

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 9g

Tips for the Perfect Tacos

Here are a few little tricks I’ve picked up over time that will take your tacos to the next level:

  • Don’t skip the lime: The lime juice really ties everything together. Use it generously in the slaw and the Baja sauce, and serve extra wedges on the side for that fresh burst of acidity.
  • Make the slaw ahead: The slaw actually gets better as it sits and marinates in the lime juice. Feel free to make it a few hours ahead of time if you’re meal prepping or hosting.
  • Warm the tortillas: Warm tortillas hold together better and have a more pleasant texture than cold ones. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.

FAQ

How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 5-10 minutes at room temperature or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
How can I achieve grill marks on the stovetop?
Use a cast iron grill pan to achieve perfect grill marks when cooking chicken on the stovetop.
What are the best methods to warm tortillas?
Warm tortillas in a skillet or directly over a gas flame on the stovetop for the best texture. Other methods include using a microwave or oven.

Summary

Skinny Baja Chicken Tacos offer a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional tacos. Perfect for a quick and easy meal, these tacos can be customized with your favorite toppings and are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy with a side of skinny margaritas for a complete Mexican-inspired feast!

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Jaylene Huff

Jaylene Huff is a passionate fitness author and nutrition expert, celebrated for her engaging guides on healthy living.
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