Kid-Approved Ground Chicken Tacos Quick and Easy Meal

ByMaya
- 1 lb ground chicken - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning - 1/2 cup tomato sauce - 1/2 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen) - 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 small taco shells or tortillas - Shredded lettuce - Diced tomatoes - Shredded cheese - Sour cream - Avocado slices When you make kid-approved ground chicken tacos, you need simple, tasty ingredients. Ground chicken is lean and cooks quickly. Olive oil helps to sauté the onion and garlic, giving a nice flavor. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic gives a punch. Taco seasoning brings that classic taco taste. Tomato sauce binds everything together and adds moisture. Corn is sweet and colorful, and black beans add protein and fiber. You can adjust salt and pepper based on your family's taste. For toppings, I suggest shredded lettuce for crunch, diced tomatoes for freshness, and cheese for creaminess. Sour cream adds coolness, and avocado slices give a rich texture. These toppings let kids build their own tacos, making mealtime fun! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers. 2. Add one small, finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about three to four minutes. Stir it occasionally until the onion softens and turns clear. 3. Stir in two cloves of minced garlic. Cook for one more minute until it's fragrant and slightly golden. 4. Increase the heat a bit and add one pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink, about six to eight minutes. 5. Mix in one tablespoon of taco seasoning, half a cup of tomato sauce, half a cup of corn kernels, and one cup of rinsed and drained black beans. Stir well to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. 6. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about five minutes. This helps blend the flavors nicely. 1. While the chicken mixture simmers, warm eight small taco shells in a preheated oven or in the microwave. Follow the package instructions for best results. 1. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture into each taco shell. 2. Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and creamy avocado slices. Arrange them well for a fun presentation. How to customize toppings for picky eaters Kids can be tough when it comes to food. Keep toppings simple. Offer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices. Let them pick what they want. This turns taco night into a fun and personal experience. You can also try adding mild salsa for a little kick. Suggested sides to pair with the tacos Pair your tacos with sides that kids love. Try corn on the cob, rice, or a fresh fruit salad. These sides complement the tacos nicely. They also add color to the plate, making it more appealing. Spicing options for adults For adults, enhance flavor with spices. Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for heat. A splash of lime juice brightens the taste. Fresh cilantro adds an herbal note that works well too. Tips for balancing flavors with salt and acid Balancing flavors is key. Taste your taco filling and adjust salt as needed. Add more acid with lime juice or a bit of vinegar. This creates a well-rounded flavor. Remember, a little can go a long way! Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your tacos. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your family's taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give it a nice kick! Make it a Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with various toppings so everyone can personalize their tacos and have fun building their own. Leftover Magic: Use any leftover chicken mixture in burritos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for nachos for another delicious meal. {{image_4}} You can easily swap ground chicken for ground turkey or beef. Both options work well and taste great. Turkey is leaner, while beef brings a richer flavor. You can also add more veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can boost nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the onions. If you want to change up the flavor, try different taco seasoning blends. You might find a spicy mix or a smoky one that excites your taste buds. You can also make your own taco seasoning at home. Here’s a simple recipe: - 1 tablespoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste Mix these spices together and add them to your chicken mixture. This gives you control over the flavor and spice level. Enjoy your cooking adventure! To keep your chicken taco mixture fresh, place it in an airtight container. This will lock in moisture and flavors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the mixture. It can last in the freezer for about three months. Just remember to label the container with the date. For taco shells, keep them in their original packaging or a sealed bag. Store them in a cool, dry place. This will help keep them crisp. If the shells are already opened, use them within a week for the best taste. To reheat the chicken filling, use a skillet over medium heat. Stir it often until it's hot. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For taco shells, you can warm them in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, heat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes. If you use the microwave, do it for 30 seconds. This keeps the shells from getting soggy. For soft tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel. This way, they stay soft and warm. Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight. If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave. Once thawed, cook it like fresh chicken. This way, you can make these tasty tacos quickly. Here are some great sides to pair with your tacos: - Mexican rice - Refried beans - Chips with salsa - Fresh fruit salad - Corn on the cob These sides balance well with the flavors of the tacos. They are fun and easy to prepare. To spice up the tacos, try these ideas: - Add sliced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. - Use hot taco seasoning instead of mild. - Top with spicy salsa or hot sauce. These simple changes will give your tacos a nice kick. Yes, you can prep the filling ahead of time. Make the chicken mixture and store it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat the filling and serve it in warm taco shells. You learned how to make tasty chicken tacos. We covered all the key parts: main ingredients, cooking the filling, and toppings. I shared tips for kids and ways to spice things up. You can even swap ingredients or get creative with toppings. Don’t forget about storing leftovers and reheating them right. Enjoy your taco night and customize it to fit everyone's taste! Cooking can be fun and easy.

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Looking for a quick and easy meal that kids will love? These Kid-Approved Ground Chicken Tacos pack delicious flavors and loads of fun! With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, you can customize it with tasty toppings. Let’s dive in and make taco night the best night of the week!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Kid-Friendly: This recipe uses ground chicken, making it a lean and healthy protein option that kids love.
  2. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this taco recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
  3. Customizable: With various toppings, each family member can personalize their taco just the way they like it.
  4. Flavorful: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously savory filling that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground chicken

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

– 1/2 cup tomato sauce

– 1/2 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)

– 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 8 small taco shells or tortillas

Optional Toppings

– Shredded lettuce

– Diced tomatoes

– Shredded cheese

– Sour cream

– Avocado slices

When you make kid-approved ground chicken tacos, you need simple, tasty ingredients. Ground chicken is lean and cooks quickly. Olive oil helps to sauté the onion and garlic, giving a nice flavor. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic gives a punch. Taco seasoning brings that classic taco taste.

Tomato sauce binds everything together and adds moisture. Corn is sweet and colorful, and black beans add protein and fiber. You can adjust salt and pepper based on your family’s taste.

For toppings, I suggest shredded lettuce for crunch, diced tomatoes for freshness, and cheese for creaminess. Sour cream adds coolness, and avocado slices give a rich texture. These toppings let kids build their own tacos, making mealtime fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Chicken Filling

1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers.

2. Add one small, finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about three to four minutes. Stir it occasionally until the onion softens and turns clear.

3. Stir in two cloves of minced garlic. Cook for one more minute until it’s fragrant and slightly golden.

4. Increase the heat a bit and add one pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink, about six to eight minutes.

5. Mix in one tablespoon of taco seasoning, half a cup of tomato sauce, half a cup of corn kernels, and one cup of rinsed and drained black beans. Stir well to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

6. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about five minutes. This helps blend the flavors nicely.

Preparing the Taco Shells

1. While the chicken mixture simmers, warm eight small taco shells in a preheated oven or in the microwave. Follow the package instructions for best results.

Assembling the Tacos

1. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture into each taco shell.

2. Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and creamy avocado slices. Arrange them well for a fun presentation.

Tips & Tricks

Making It Kid-Friendly

How to customize toppings for picky eaters

Kids can be tough when it comes to food. Keep toppings simple. Offer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices. Let them pick what they want. This turns taco night into a fun and personal experience. You can also try adding mild salsa for a little kick.

Suggested sides to pair with the tacos

Pair your tacos with sides that kids love. Try corn on the cob, rice, or a fresh fruit salad. These sides complement the tacos nicely. They also add color to the plate, making it more appealing.

Enhancing Flavor

Spicing options for adults

For adults, enhance flavor with spices. Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for heat. A splash of lime juice brightens the taste. Fresh cilantro adds an herbal note that works well too.

Tips for balancing flavors with salt and acid

Balancing flavors is key. Taste your taco filling and adjust salt as needed. Add more acid with lime juice or a bit of vinegar. This creates a well-rounded flavor. Remember, a little can go a long way!

Pro Tips

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your tacos.
  2. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your family’s taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give it a nice kick!
  3. Make it a Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with various toppings so everyone can personalize their tacos and have fun building their own.
  4. Leftover Magic: Use any leftover chicken mixture in burritos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for nachos for another delicious meal.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can easily swap ground chicken for ground turkey or beef. Both options work well and taste great. Turkey is leaner, while beef brings a richer flavor. You can also add more veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can boost nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the onions.

Seasoning Alternatives

If you want to change up the flavor, try different taco seasoning blends. You might find a spicy mix or a smoky one that excites your taste buds. You can also make your own taco seasoning at home. Here’s a simple recipe:

– 1 tablespoon chili powder

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these spices together and add them to your chicken mixture. This gives you control over the flavor and spice level. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your chicken taco mixture fresh, place it in an airtight container. This will lock in moisture and flavors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the mixture. It can last in the freezer for about three months. Just remember to label the container with the date.

For taco shells, keep them in their original packaging or a sealed bag. Store them in a cool, dry place. This will help keep them crisp. If the shells are already opened, use them within a week for the best taste.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat the chicken filling, use a skillet over medium heat. Stir it often until it’s hot. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

For taco shells, you can warm them in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, heat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes. If you use the microwave, do it for 30 seconds. This keeps the shells from getting soggy. For soft tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel. This way, they stay soft and warm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave. Once thawed, cook it like fresh chicken. This way, you can make these tasty tacos quickly.

What are good sides to serve with kid-approved tacos?

Here are some great sides to pair with your tacos:

– Mexican rice

– Refried beans

– Chips with salsa

– Fresh fruit salad

– Corn on the cob

These sides balance well with the flavors of the tacos. They are fun and easy to prepare.

How can I make these tacos spicy for adults?

To spice up the tacos, try these ideas:

– Add sliced jalapeños to the chicken mixture.

– Use hot taco seasoning instead of mild.

– Top with spicy salsa or hot sauce.

These simple changes will give your tacos a nice kick.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, you can prep the filling ahead of time. Make the chicken mixture and store it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat the filling and serve it in warm taco shells.

You learned how to make tasty chicken tacos. We covered all the key parts: main ingredients, cooking the filling, and toppings. I shared tips for kids and ways to spice things up. You can even swap ingredients or get creative with toppings. Don’t forget about storing leftovers and reheating them right. Enjoy your taco night and customize it to fit everyone’s taste! Cooking can be fun and eas

- 1 lb ground chicken - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning - 1/2 cup tomato sauce - 1/2 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen) - 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained - Salt and pepper to taste - 8 small taco shells or tortillas - Shredded lettuce - Diced tomatoes - Shredded cheese - Sour cream - Avocado slices When you make kid-approved ground chicken tacos, you need simple, tasty ingredients. Ground chicken is lean and cooks quickly. Olive oil helps to sauté the onion and garlic, giving a nice flavor. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic gives a punch. Taco seasoning brings that classic taco taste. Tomato sauce binds everything together and adds moisture. Corn is sweet and colorful, and black beans add protein and fiber. You can adjust salt and pepper based on your family's taste. For toppings, I suggest shredded lettuce for crunch, diced tomatoes for freshness, and cheese for creaminess. Sour cream adds coolness, and avocado slices give a rich texture. These toppings let kids build their own tacos, making mealtime fun! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers. 2. Add one small, finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about three to four minutes. Stir it occasionally until the onion softens and turns clear. 3. Stir in two cloves of minced garlic. Cook for one more minute until it's fragrant and slightly golden. 4. Increase the heat a bit and add one pound of ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is fully browned and no longer pink, about six to eight minutes. 5. Mix in one tablespoon of taco seasoning, half a cup of tomato sauce, half a cup of corn kernels, and one cup of rinsed and drained black beans. Stir well to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. 6. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about five minutes. This helps blend the flavors nicely. 1. While the chicken mixture simmers, warm eight small taco shells in a preheated oven or in the microwave. Follow the package instructions for best results. 1. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture into each taco shell. 2. Add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and creamy avocado slices. Arrange them well for a fun presentation. How to customize toppings for picky eaters Kids can be tough when it comes to food. Keep toppings simple. Offer shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices. Let them pick what they want. This turns taco night into a fun and personal experience. You can also try adding mild salsa for a little kick. Suggested sides to pair with the tacos Pair your tacos with sides that kids love. Try corn on the cob, rice, or a fresh fruit salad. These sides complement the tacos nicely. They also add color to the plate, making it more appealing. Spicing options for adults For adults, enhance flavor with spices. Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for heat. A splash of lime juice brightens the taste. Fresh cilantro adds an herbal note that works well too. Tips for balancing flavors with salt and acid Balancing flavors is key. Taste your taco filling and adjust salt as needed. Add more acid with lime juice or a bit of vinegar. This creates a well-rounded flavor. Remember, a little can go a long way! Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your tacos. Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your family's taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne can give it a nice kick! Make it a Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with various toppings so everyone can personalize their tacos and have fun building their own. Leftover Magic: Use any leftover chicken mixture in burritos, quesadillas, or even as a topping for nachos for another delicious meal. {{image_4}} You can easily swap ground chicken for ground turkey or beef. Both options work well and taste great. Turkey is leaner, while beef brings a richer flavor. You can also add more veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can boost nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and toss them in with the onions. If you want to change up the flavor, try different taco seasoning blends. You might find a spicy mix or a smoky one that excites your taste buds. You can also make your own taco seasoning at home. Here’s a simple recipe: - 1 tablespoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste Mix these spices together and add them to your chicken mixture. This gives you control over the flavor and spice level. Enjoy your cooking adventure! To keep your chicken taco mixture fresh, place it in an airtight container. This will lock in moisture and flavors. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the mixture. It can last in the freezer for about three months. Just remember to label the container with the date. For taco shells, keep them in their original packaging or a sealed bag. Store them in a cool, dry place. This will help keep them crisp. If the shells are already opened, use them within a week for the best taste. To reheat the chicken filling, use a skillet over medium heat. Stir it often until it's hot. You can also use the microwave. Just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For taco shells, you can warm them in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, heat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes. If you use the microwave, do it for 30 seconds. This keeps the shells from getting soggy. For soft tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel. This way, they stay soft and warm. Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight. If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave. Once thawed, cook it like fresh chicken. This way, you can make these tasty tacos quickly. Here are some great sides to pair with your tacos: - Mexican rice - Refried beans - Chips with salsa - Fresh fruit salad - Corn on the cob These sides balance well with the flavors of the tacos. They are fun and easy to prepare. To spice up the tacos, try these ideas: - Add sliced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. - Use hot taco seasoning instead of mild. - Top with spicy salsa or hot sauce. These simple changes will give your tacos a nice kick. Yes, you can prep the filling ahead of time. Make the chicken mixture and store it in an airtight container. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat the filling and serve it in warm taco shells. You learned how to make tasty chicken tacos. We covered all the key parts: main ingredients, cooking the filling, and toppings. I shared tips for kids and ways to spice things up. You can even swap ingredients or get creative with toppings. Don’t forget about storing leftovers and reheating them right. Enjoy your taco night and customize it to fit everyone's taste! Cooking can be fun and easy.

Kid-Approved Ground Chicken Tacos

Delicious and easy ground chicken tacos that kids will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 2 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 8 small taco shells or tortillas
  • as desired toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado slices

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  • Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and become translucent.
  • Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it's fragrant and slightly golden.
  • Increase the heat slightly, then add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the chicken is completely browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, mix in the taco seasoning, followed by the tomato sauce, corn, and black beans. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Season generously with salt and pepper to match your taste preferences.
  • Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5 minutes. This will help blend the flavors beautifully.
  • While the chicken mixture simmers, warm the taco shells in a preheated oven or in the microwave, following the instructions on the packaging for the best result.
  • To assemble your delicious tacos, spoon a generous portion of the chicken mixture into each taco shell. Top with your choice of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and creamy avocado slices for a delightful presentation.

Notes

Arrange the filled tacos on a colorful platter, and garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges for a vibrant finish. Serve alongside a bowl of extra toppings for a fun DIY taco night!
Keyword ground chicken, kid-friendly, tacos

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