Rico Rodriguez’ Mom’s Chicken Tacos

Total Time

Prep: 30 min. Cook: 10 min.

Makes

6 servings

Updated: Feb. 15, 2022
Rico Rodriguez' mom, Diane Rodriguez, shares this family-favorite recipe for chicken tacos. Shredded chicken gets smothered in a seasoned tomato sauce, then wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with cheddar cheese.
Rico Rodriguez' Mom's Chicken Tacos Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 12 corn tortillas (6 inches) or taco shells, warmed
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce and chopped tomatoes

Directions

  1. Place chicken in a Dutch oven; add water to cover. Bring just to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 170°.
  2. Using tongs, remove chicken from pan; reserve 1/2 cup cooking liquid. Cool chicken slightly. Shred when cool enough to handle.
  3. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth; cook and stir until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in reserved cooking liquid. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes longer.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and seasonings; return to a boil. Stir in shredded chicken; heat through, stirring occasionally. Serve in tortillas with toppings, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

2 tacos: 364 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 101mg cholesterol, 614mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 32g protein.