If you love tacos with a bit of fire, these Pan-Seared Spicy Shredded Chicken Tacos are calling your name. Made on the stovetop with bold seasoning and crispy edges, they come together fast and taste like a fiesta in every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Spicy Chicken Tacos
These tacos are hot—in every way. Here’s why they’re a repeat favorite:
- Quick & Satisfying: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Bold Seasoning: Chili powder, cayenne, and smoked paprika bring the heat.
- Pan-Seared Perfection: Crispy edges and juicy bites in every taco.
- Simple Skillet Method: No oven, no fuss.
- Weeknight Hero: Easy enough for busy nights, impressive enough for taco night guests.
Key Ingredients
Spice lovers, this one’s for you. Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.
- Shredded Chicken – Cooked chicken gets new life with spicy seasonings.
- Chili Powder, Cayenne, Smoked Paprika – The flavor trio for serious heat.
- Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken and carry the spice.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Rounds out the flavor.
- Tortillas – Corn or flour, warmed or charred in the same pan.
- Toppings – Cool things down with sour cream, avocado, or a fresh slaw.
How to Make Pan-Seared Spicy Chicken Tacos
Get ready for easy, fiery deliciousness:
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with oil and spices until well coated.
- Sear in Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and heated through.
- Warm Tortillas: Quickly heat tortillas in the same pan or directly over a burner.
- Assemble: Fill each tortilla with spicy chicken and top with your favorites.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
- Adjust the Heat: Use more or less cayenne to match your spice level.
- Add a Slaw: Cool things off with a creamy or citrusy slaw on top.
- Crispy Finish: Pan-fry filled tacos for an extra-crunchy version.
- Make It a Wrap: Use large tortillas and turn these into spicy chicken wraps.
What to Serve With Spicy Chicken Tacos
Toppings
Avocado, sour cream, pickled jalapeños, shredded lettuce, lime wedges.
Sides
Cilantro rice, spicy black beans, or tortilla chips with queso.
Veggies
Grilled corn or a mango-cucumber salad for contrast.
Something Fun
Pair with a spicy margarita or a chilled watermelon agua fresca.
Pan-Seared Spicy Shredded Chicken Tacos
These Pan-Seared Spicy Shredded Chicken Tacos are bold, fiery, and ready in just 15 minutes! Shredded chicken is tossed with smoky spices and quickly seared in a hot skillet for crispy edges and deep flavor. Pile it into warm tortillas and top with creamy or crunchy toppings for a taco night that brings the heat and the speed.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- 6 small tortillas (flour or corn), for serving
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced avocado, crunchy slaw, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Season chicken: In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt until well coated.
- Sear: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Warm tortillas: While the chicken cooks, toast the tortillas in the same skillet or directly over a gas flame until lightly charred and pliable.
- Serve: Fill each tortilla with the spicy seared chicken. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Preparation Time:
5 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
15 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: 210
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 17g
Additional Notes:
- Great way to use up leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken.
- Adjust cayenne for a milder or bolder kick.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of fresh lime juice or hot sauce just before serving.
