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Crispy Chicken Taco with Arugula

Golden crispy chicken strips piled into warm tortillas with peppery arugula, a creamy cheese sauce, and smooth avocado spread. A quick, satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes.

Total time
35 min
Servings
4
Calories
520
Protein
35g
Crispy Chicken Taco with Arugula
comfortingweeknightmexicanchickencrispycreamycasual dinnertaco

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast
  • 8 small tortillas
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 medium avocado
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups arugula

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut the 1 lb chicken breast into 1-inch strips. Set up a breading station: 0.5 cup flour in one bowl, 1 beaten egg in another, and 1 cup panko in a third.

  2. 2

    Dredge each chicken strip in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing to coat. Heat 0.25 cup oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering, about 2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Fry the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if needed, until golden and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

  4. 4

    While chicken cooks, mash the 1 avocado with a pinch of salt and 1 tbsp lime juice if you have it. Warm the 8 tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.

  5. 5

    Make the cheese sauce: melt 1 cup shredded cheddar with 0.25 cup milk in a small saucepan over low, stirring until smooth, about 3 minutes.

  6. 6

    Spread avocado on each tortilla, top with crispy chicken, drizzle with cheese sauce, and finish with a handful of arugula. Serve immediately.

  7. 7

    Optional: add hot sauce, lime wedges, or extra salt to taste.

Tools you’ll need

  • large skillet
  • small saucepan
  • mixing bowls
  • tongs
  • knife and cutting board

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