Recipes

Rachel Johnson, Contributor

SMASHED CHICKEN TACOS

We show you three variations, but you can make this tasty taco recipe in any number of ways, varying seasonings, sauces and toppings. Simply spread ground meat onto a tortilla, and sear it in a hot pan. The result is crispy, seasoned chicken, and the tortilla soaks up all the extra flavor.

Makes: 8 Tacos

Total Time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound ground chicken

1 (1-ounce) packet (2 tablespoons) taco or other seasoning

1/2 cup vegetable or olive oil, divided

8 (6-inch) corn tortillas

Toppings: sliced jalapenos, shredded cabbage, sour cream, salsa, other toppings to taste

TRADITIONAL CHICKEN SMASHED TACOS

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken and taco seasoning; mix well.

2. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Nonstick skillets can be used, but use only 1 teaspoon oil.

3. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons ground chicken mixture in an even layer across one side of the tortilla.

4. Press tortilla, chicken side down, into the hot oil; cook 3 to 5 minutes or until chicken is golden and crispy. Flip taco, tortilla side down; cook 1 to 2 minutes or until browned and warmed through. Add more oil to the pan, if needed.

5. Repeat with remaining ingredients until all tacos are cooked through.

6. Top with preferred toppings; fold in half. Enjoy immediately!

GREEK-STLE SMASHED CHICKEN TACOS

Mix 1 pound ground chicken with 3 tablespoons Greek seasoning, and spread evenly on 8 (6-inch) pita rounds. Cook tacos as directed in the traditional chicken smashed tacos recipe above. Top with premade tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives and fresh herbs.

BUFFALO CHICKEN SMASHED TACOS

Mix 1 pound ground chicken with 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning, and spread evenly on 8 (6-inch) flour tortillas. Cook tacos as directed in the traditional chicken smashed tacos recipe above. Brush chicken with buffalo sauce, and top with sliced celery and crumbled blue cheese.

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-- RACHEL'S PRO TIP: Substitute any lean ground meat in these recipes. Try turkey, lamb or bison.

-- Follow Rachel on Instagram @racheltherecipe

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