Crispy Chicken Tacos with Easy Avocado Salsa

Transform your dinner routine with Crunchy Fiesta Chicken Tacos! These delightful tacos are filled with juicy, crispy chicken thighs and enhanced by a vibrant avocado salsa that adds a burst of flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe allows for customization to suit any spice preference. With a perfect crunch, creamy texture, and fresh ingredients, these tacos promise to impress your family and friends at every table. Try them for an unforgettable culinary experience!

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Easy Avocado Salsa:

2 ripe avocados, diced

1 medium tomato, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 lime, juiced

Fresh cilantro, chopped (to taste)

Salt to taste

For Assembly:

8 small corn or flour tortillas

Shredded lettuce

Queso fresco or cheddar cheese (optional)

Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

- In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

Coat the Chicken:

- In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In another dish, place panko breadcrumbs. Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off, then dredge each piece first in the flour mixture, followed by the panko, pressing gently to adhere.

Fry the Chicken:

- In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place in the breaded chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Avocado Salsa:

- In a medium bowl, combine diced avocados, tomato, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Gently mix until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Assemble the Tacos:

- Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave. Layer shredded lettuce on each tortilla, top with crispy chicken, and finish with a generous spoonful of avocado salsa. Sprinkle cheese on top if desired.

Serve:

- Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins | Servings: 4-6 tacos