Salsa Verde Honey Lime Chicken Taco Cups

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If you’re looking for a delicious and effortless weeknight meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than these Salsa Verde Honey Lime Chicken Taco Cups! Bursting with a zesty and sweet profile, these bite-sized taco cups are perfect for dinner or entertaining your friends during a game day gathering. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a vibrant salsa verde with a hint of honey and lime makes this dish not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into an irresistible recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Taco Cups are the ultimate handheld meal – fun and flavorful! The off-the-charts flavor comes from a unique blend of sweet and savory ingredients that tickle your taste buds. Not to mention, with their easy assembly and baking, they can transform any ordinary meal into a festive occasion. Plus, they’re versatile and can cater to both meat lovers and vegetarian options. The real cherry on top? They pack perfectly for lunches or tailgating parties!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup mild salsa verde (I use Herdez in the jar)
• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 15 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 12 small flour or corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: diced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled cheese

How To Make Salsa Verde Honey Lime Chicken Taco Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start with the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel and cut them into smaller pieces. This will allow for even cooking and tender bites. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Sauté until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Sauce

Once the chicken has cooked through, lower the heat and stir in the mild salsa verde, honey, and lime juice. Combine everything well and let it cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and infuses the chicken with fabulous flavor.

Step 3: Add the Black Beans

After the sauce has thickened, gently fold in the rinsed and drained black beans. This not only adds excellent texture, but it also enhances the protein content of the taco cups.

Step 4: Assemble the Taco Cups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take your small tortillas and press them into a greased muffin tin to create little cups. Fill each cup generously with the chicken and bean mixture. You want these to be bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the tortillas are crispy around the edges and the mixture is heated through. You’ll know they’re ready when you start to smell that delicious spicy aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Once baked, carefully remove the taco cups from the muffin tin. Serve them warm topped with your favorite toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for that extra zest!

Expert Tips

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the salsa verde and spices for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
• Using smaller tortillas allows for more bite-sized cups, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Make sure to grease your muffin tin well to prevent sticking.
• For crispy edges, bake longer if necessary, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the chicken for shreddedbeefor beef for a different flavor profile.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with extra beans or roasted vegetables.
• Add some corn for sweetness and texture in your filling.
• Top with your favorite cheese for added melty goodness.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Taco Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. They may lose some crispness but will still taste great!

FAQ

Can I freeze these Taco Cups?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled taco cups before baking. Just place them in the freezer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply shred the chicken and stir it into the salsa verde mixture, skip the frying step, and continue with the recipe.

What kind of salsa verde should I use?

For this recipe, I suggest a mild salsa verde, like Herdez, which provides a great flavor without too much heat. You can also make your own if you’re feeling ambitious!

Are these Taco Cups spicy?

These Taco Cups have a mild spice level due to the salsa verde and spices. If you’d like more heat, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling.

Conclusion

Salsa Verde Honey Lime Chicken Taco Cups are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal that combines ease, fun, and deliciousness all in one little cup. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a casual family dinner, or just in the mood for some tasty snacks, these taco cups will surely impress. With vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself making these again and again. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the taste of these delightful bites! Enjoy every crispy, zesty morsel—your taste buds will thank you!