If you’re craving something with smoky depth and a little kick, these One-Pot Chipotle Shredded Chicken Tacos are about to be your go-to. One pot. Big flavor. Easy cleanup. It’s everything you want in a 30-minute meal.
Why You’ll Love These Chipotle Chicken Tacos
These tacos bring the heat—in the best way. Here’s why we keep making them:
- One-Pot Simplicity: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
- Chipotle Power: Smoky, spicy, and balanced with a hint of sweetness.
- Fast & Flavorful: Ready in 30 minutes or less.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the chipotle to match your spice tolerance.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Shredded chicken absorbs all that saucy goodness.
Key Ingredients
Everything comes together in one pot. See the recipe card below for exact amounts.
- Shredded Chicken – Cooked and ready to soak up the smoky chipotle sauce.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Just one or two add major flavor.
- Tomato Sauce – Rounds out the sauce and tones down the heat.
- Garlic & Onion – For aromatic depth.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and richness.
- Tortillas – Warmed and ready to fill.
How to Make One-Pot Chipotle Chicken Tacos
It’s fast, simple, and loaded with flavor:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in minced chipotle peppers and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until warmed through and coated in sauce.
- Serve: Fill warm tortillas with the chipotle chicken and top with your favorites.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Balance the Heat: Add a touch of honey or a splash of cream to mellow out the spice.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in chopped bell peppers or spinach with the sauce.
- Make It a Bowl: Serve over rice with beans and avocado for a burrito bowl.
- Taco Bar Style: Set out toppings like crema, avocado, cheese, and lime wedges for DIY tacos.
What to Serve With Chipotle Chicken Tacos
Toppings
Avocado, sour cream, pickled onions, fresh cilantro, or cotija cheese.
Sides
Cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or roasted sweet potatoes.
Veggies
A crunchy slaw or grilled zucchini for balance.
Something Fun
Cool it down with a mango agua fresca or pair with a spicy michelada.
One-Pot Chipotle Shredded Chicken Tacos
Smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor, these One-Pot Chipotle Shredded Chicken Tacos are a quick and satisfying meal for taco night. Made with pantry staples and cooked in a single skillet, they come together in just 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup and maximum taste!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 6 small tortillas (flour or corn), for serving
- Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese
Instructions:
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the minced chipotle peppers and tomato sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Reduce heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and well coated in the sauce. Season with salt to taste.
- Assemble tacos: Warm the tortillas. Spoon the chipotle chicken mixture into each tortilla and top with your favorite garnishes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Serving Size:
1 taco
Yield:
6 tacos
Cuisine:
Mexican-Inspired
Course:
Main Course
Nutrition Information:
Per taco (approximate values depending on tortillas and toppings)
Calories: 230
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 17g
Additional Notes:
- This filling also works great for burritos, rice bowls, or quesadillas.
- Adjust spice level by using more or fewer chipotle peppers.
- Leftover chipotle peppers can be frozen in small portions for future recipes.
