Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco Recipe

Craving Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos?

Let’s be honest, there’s something undeniably satisfying about a Del Taco chicken soft taco. The seasoned chicken, the creamy sauce, the crisp lettuce, and the warm tortilla all come together in a perfect bite. While you can always head to your nearest Del Taco, making these flavorful tacos at home is surprisingly easy and lets you customize them to your liking.

This recipe captures the essence of Del Taco’s classic chicken soft tacos, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Get ready to enjoy a taste of your favorite Mexican fast food without leaving the comfort of your own kitchen.

Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco Recipe Card

Delicious and easy to make, our Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco Recipe is a perfect copycat version of the classic fast food favorite.

Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 8-10 corn tortillas
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm the corn tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla and serving with a lime wedge.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Ingredients for Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

To make Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos, gather the following ingredients:

• 500 g / 1.1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 15 ml / 1 tbsp olive oil
• 7 g / 1 tsp ground cumin
• 3 g / 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 g / 0.5 tsp paprika
• 0.5 g / 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 240 g / 1 cup chopped onion
• 120 g / 0.5 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8-10 corn tortillas (for soft tacos)
• 240 g / 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 120 ml / 0.5 cup diced tomatoes
• Optional ingredients:
  • 120 g / 0.5 cup diced bell peppers
  • 120 g / 0.5 cup diced avocado
  • 60 g / 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 60 g / 0.25 cup salsa

Ensure all ingredients are fresh and of high quality for the best flavor and texture in your Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos.

Instructions for Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

These instructions will guide you through creating delicious Del Taco-inspired chicken soft tacos at home.

1. Cook the Chicken: Season 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (180°C/350°F). Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F.
2. Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks or your preferred method.
3. Prepare the Taco Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
4. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
5. Warm the Tortillas: Heat 10-12 small corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat (180°C/350°F) for 30 seconds per side, or until warm and pliable. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 15-20 seconds.
6. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warm tortilla with a generous amount of shredded chicken. Top with your desired amount of sauce, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite taco toppings.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

Recreate the authentic taste of Del Taco’s famous chicken soft tacos with these insider tips and tricks.

Pro Tips:

• Use the right type of chicken: Del Taco’s chicken is cooked in a blend of spices, so use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and avoid pre-cooked or seasoned chicken.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure it stays juicy and tender.
• Make your own seasoning blend: Mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder to create a flavor profile similar to Del Taco’s.
• Use the right type of tortillas: Choose soft, pliable corn tortillas that can hold up to the filling without tearing.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

• Over-reliance on pre-packaged seasonings: While convenient, these can overpower the natural flavors of the chicken and tortillas.
• Insufficient browning: Make sure to cook the chicken until it develops a rich, caramelized crust for added flavor.
• Overfilling the tacos: Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when folded.

Substitutions and Variations for Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

To cater to different tastes and dietary restrictions, several substitutions can be made in the Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco recipe. For a vegetarian option, replace 240 g / 1 cup of cooked chicken with 240 g / 1 cup of cooked black beans or roasted vegetables.

• For a spicy kick, add 1-2 diced jalapeños or 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce to the chicken seasoning.
• Swap 60 g / 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with 60 g / 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier slaw.
• Use 120 g / 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes with green chilies for added flavor.
• For a gluten-free option, replace traditional tortillas with gluten-free alternatives.

When making substitutions, consider the flavor profile and texture of the replacement ingredients. Adjust the amount of seasoning and spices accordingly to achieve the desired taste. Cook ingredients to the recommended internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F to ensure food safety.

Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco Variations and Twists

Love the classic Del Taco chicken soft taco but want to explore new flavors? Here are some fun variations to spice things up!

1. Spicy Southwest

   Add a kick to your tacos with diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smokier flavor. Time: 5 minutes extra

2. Creamy Avocado Ranch

   Swap out traditional sour cream for a creamy avocado ranch dressing. Blend ripe avocados, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic for a fresh and flavorful twist. Time: 10 minutes extra

3. Citrusy Lime Cilantro

   Brighten your tacos with a zesty lime cilantro sauce. Combine lime juice, chopped cilantro, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Time: 5 minutes extra

Storing and Reheating Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

For optimal freshness and flavor, it’s essential to store and reheat your Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos properly.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover chicken soft tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below.

• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat chicken soft tacos to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.

1. Wrap the taco in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
2. Check the temperature and adjust reheating time as needed.
3. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning frequently, until warmed through.

Remember to always check the chicken for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

When preparing Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos, some common issues may arise. These problems can be easily resolved with a few adjustments to the recipe or cooking technique.

Common Problems and Fixes

• Overcooked Chicken: If the chicken is overcooked, it can become dry and tough. To fix this, cook the chicken at a lower temperature (165°C / 325°F) for a shorter amount of time (15-20 minutes).
• Soggy Tortillas: If the tortillas become soggy, it can be due to excess moisture from the toppings or sauce. To fix this, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the oven at 180°C / 350°F for a few minutes to remove excess moisture.
• Lack of Flavor: If the tacos lack flavor, it may be due to insufficient seasoning. To fix this, add more taco seasoning to the chicken or use fresh cilantro and lime juice to add brightness and flavor.
• Chicken Not Shredding: If the chicken is not shredding easily, it may be due to undercooking. To fix this, cook the chicken for an additional 10-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

By addressing these common issues, you can ensure that your Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos turn out delicious and flavorful every time.

Nutritional Information for Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories per serving: 350 kcal / 1460 kJ
• Fat per serving: 15g / 21g
• Protein per serving: 25g / 25g
• Carbohydrates per serving: 30g / 30g

These tacos are a good source of protein and fiber. They are also relatively low in saturated fat.

Frequently Asked Questions about Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos

Get answers to your questions about this popular recipe.

• What type of chicken is best for Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos? Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken.
• Can I use store-bought taco seasoning? Yes, but keep in mind that homemade seasoning blends might be more flavorful. If using store-bought, follow package instructions.
• How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding.
• Can I substitute the soft taco shells? Yes, you can use other types of taco shells or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• How long does the recipe take to prepare? This recipe should take about 30-40 minutes to prepare, including cooking and shredding the chicken.

For more information and to see the full recipe, click here.

Key Takeaways from the Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco Recipe

This recipe summary highlights the essential points and cooking tips for making delicious Del Taco-inspired chicken soft tacos at home.

• Marination is key: Marinate chicken breast in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and spices for at least 30 minutes to achieve tender and flavorful meat.
• Cooking temperature: Grill or cook the chicken in a skillet at 200°C / 400°F for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.
• Use fresh ingredients: Top the tacos with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce for added texture and flavor.
• Tortilla warming: Warm the soft taco tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to fold.

By following these key takeaways and cooking tips, you’ll be able to create authentic-tasting Del Taco chicken soft tacos in the comfort of your own kitchen using 240 g / 1 cup of chicken breast and your favorite toppings.

A Taco Tuesday Staple

For years, I’ve been a loyal fan of Del Taco’s chicken soft tacos.
There’s just something about that perfectly seasoned chicken, the crisp lettuce, the creamy sauce, and the soft, warm tortilla that hits the spot every time.

So, when I decided to tackle recreating this classic at home, I knew it had to be spot-on.
I spent hours experimenting with different spice blends, cooking methods, and even tortilla types to capture that authentic Del Taco flavor.

The result? This recipe! It’s a labor of love, and I’m so proud of how closely it resembles the real deal.
Whether you’re a die-hard Del Taco fan or just looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, I think you’ll love these homemade chicken soft tacos.

Conclusion: Making Delicious Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos at Home

With this recipe, you can now recreate the flavors of Del Taco’s famous chicken soft tacos in the comfort of your own kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy lettuce, and creamy salsa comes together to create a truly mouthwatering dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and ingredients to make the recipe your own.

We hope you’ve enjoyed making this recipe and can’t wait to see what you create! If you’re looking for more delicious taco recipes, be sure to check out our other taco-inspired dishes.