Qdoba Chicken Tacos Recipe
Joe Williams
In the colorful landscape of fast-casual dining, Qdoba stands out as a go-to spot for bold flavors and personalized dishes. Among their offerings, the chicken tacos hold a special place in my heart.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 ½ pounds 680 grams boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup 130 grams chunky salsa
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 yellow onion finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for added smoky flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice for a citrusy kick
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the salsa, vegetable oil, minced onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, paprika, and lime juice. Whisk until well mixed. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well covered in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken while you prepare other elements.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For a nice sear, resist the urge to flip too often. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes; this helps keep it juicy.
Step 3: Prepare the Toppings
While the chicken is grilling, prepare your toppings. Dice fresh tomatoes, chop lettuce, and slice avocados for that creamy touch. You can also mix your salsa if you want to add a personal flair. The more vibrant the toppings, the more appealing your tacos will be.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces. Warm your tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for a few seconds on each side. Next, layer a generous amount of chicken into each tortilla. Top with your freshly prepared veggies, salsa, guacamole, or whatever else you fancy. The trick is to layer strategically so every bite bursts with flavor.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will elevate the dish. Seek out local produce and quality chicken.
- Let Chicken Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate for up to 2 hours to intensify flavors.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try different types of cheese, beans, or even a spicy sauce. Each variation can bring something new.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Letting the chicken rest after cooking retains its juices, making it more delicious.
- Make a Large Batch: These tacos are great for meal prep. Make more chicken and store it for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
Keyword Qdoba Chicken Tacos Recipe