Name: Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ cup diced yellow onion; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 lime, juiced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon ground coriander; ½ teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 12 small tortillas (flour, corn, or a 50/50 blend); 1 (14-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; Shredded iceberg lettuce; Chopped tomatoes; Cilantro leaves; Diced red onion; Shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Sour cream; Hot sauce or salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Time-Saving Shortcut – Rotisserie chicken cuts down prep and cook time.
Packed with Flavor – A mix of spices, lime, and tomato paste creates an authentic taste.
Customizable – Choose your favorite toppings to personalize each taco.
Family-Friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will love.
Minimal Cleanup – Uses just one pan for the filling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Filling:

3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken meat
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup diced yellow onion
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 lime, juiced

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Serving:

12 small tortillas (flour, corn, or 50/50 blend)
14-ounce can of black beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Toppings:

Shredded iceberg lettuce
Chopped tomatoes
Cilantro leaves
Diced red onion
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Hot sauce or salsa

Directions

Sauté the Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken and all seasonings. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato paste, stirring until well mixed. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the liquid reduces and coats the chicken. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir.
Warm the Beans: In a separate pan, warm the black beans over low heat.
Toast the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly charred on both sides.
Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with the chicken mixture and black beans, then add your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 (12 tacos)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the chicken.
Cheesy Option: Melt cheese onto the tortillas before adding the filling.
Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Low-Carb Alternative: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals.
Freezing: Freeze the chicken filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Simply cook and shred boneless, skinless chicken breast before following the recipe.

2. What’s the best way to char tortillas?

Toast them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or use an open flame for extra smokiness.

3. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

4. What are the best tortillas to use?

Corn tortillas offer a traditional taste, while flour tortillas provide a softer texture.

5. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

6. Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, but fresh rotisserie chicken has a better texture and flavor.

7. What’s a good side dish for these tacos?

Serve with Mexican rice, guacamole, or a fresh corn salad.

8. Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free corn tortillas and check that your spices and broth are gluten-free.

9. Can I use different meats?

Yes! This recipe works with shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

10. How do I keep tortillas warm for serving?

Wrap them in foil and keep them in a warm oven or tortilla warmer.

Conclusion

Rotisserie chicken tacos are a simple yet flavorful meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Using store-bought rotisserie chicken makes this dish incredibly convenient while still packing in bold, delicious flavors. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy a stress-free taco night any day of the week!