Easy Ranch Chicken Tacos Recipe

Ranch Chicken Tacos are a quick, flavorful, and family-friendly meal that combines tender, seasoned chicken with the creamy tang of ranch dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these tacos are versatile, easy to customize, and sure to become a favorite in your household.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to make the best Ranch Chicken Tacos. Let’s get started!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before diving into the recipe, gather the following equipment:

1. Skillet or Frying Pan: For cooking the chicken.
2. Mixing Bowls: To prepare the ranch seasoning and marinade.
3. Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping vegetables and slicing chicken.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.
5. Tongs or Spatula: For flipping and stirring the chicken.
6. Serving Plates or Taco Holders: For assembling and serving the tacos.

What Do You Need to Prepare Ranch Chicken Tacos?

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

• 8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced red onions
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (for drizzling)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

How to Make Easy Ranch Chicken Tacos Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoning mix until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

1. While the chicken is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
2. Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to stay warm and pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Place a spoonful of cooked chicken onto each tortilla.
2. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onions, and shredded cheese.
3. Drizzle with ranch dressing and sour cream (if using).
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the tacos on a serving plate.
2. Serve immediately with extra ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Variations

Ranch Chicken Tacos are incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations:

1. Spicy Ranch Tacos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the chicken seasoning for a spicy kick.
2. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
3. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled cauliflower or tofu, and use the same ranch seasoning.
4. Cheesy Tacos: Add a layer of melted cheese to the tortillas before adding the chicken.
5. Buffalo Ranch Tacos: Toss the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before assembling the tacos.
6. Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter, low-carb version.

Cooking Notes

• Marinating the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the ranch seasoning and a tablespoon of olive oil for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
• Homemade Ranch Seasoning: If you don’t have a ranch seasoning packet, make your own by mixing dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Cooking Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Tortilla Choices: Flour tortillas are soft and pliable, while corn tortillas offer a gluten-free option with a slightly nutty flavor.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling the tacos.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ranch Chicken Tacos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad. For a complete meal, add guacamole, salsa, or tortilla chips with queso dip. These tacos also pair well with a light, refreshing drink like limeade or iced tea.

If you’re hosting a party, set up a taco bar with all the toppings and let everyone assemble their own tacos.

Helpful Tips

1. Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of lime juice to the cooked chicken for a zesty twist.
3. Crispy Tortillas: Lightly toast the tortillas in a skillet for a crispy texture.
4. Double the Batch: Make extra chicken and use it for salads, wraps, or quesadillas the next day.
5. Kid-Friendly: Let kids customize their tacos with their favorite toppings.
6. Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
7. Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave before assembling tacos.

Tips for the Best Ranch Chicken Tacos

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
• Warm the tortillas just before serving to prevent them from breaking.
• Balance the creamy ranch dressing with fresh, crunchy toppings like lettuce and onions.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or cotija, for added flavor.

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Easy Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders Recipe
• Crab Cake Egg Rolls Recipe
• How to Make Italian Tomato Salad ?
• Easy Cheesy Chicken Rigatoni Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, shred the rotisserie chicken and toss it with ranch seasoning for a quicker option.
2. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
   Assemble the tacos just before serving to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
3. Are Ranch Chicken Tacos gluten-free?
   Use corn tortillas and ensure the ranch seasoning is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Ranch Chicken Tacos are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy, tangy flavor and endless customization options, they’re sure to please everyone at the table.

Follow this detailed guide to create the best Ranch Chicken Tacos and enjoy a flavorful, stress-free dinner!

Print