Chicken and Sausage Tacos Recipe

These Chicken and Sausage Tacos are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish, perfect for any taco lover. Featuring a blend of tender chicken thighs and savory Italian sausage, seasoned with a mix of smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, this recipe delivers a zesty, mouthwatering filling. Served in crispy corn tortillas with melted cheese and topped with fresh cilantro and onions, these tacos offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. Great for weeknight dinners or taco nights, these tacos are gluten-free and customizable to your taste.

Ingredients:

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 Italian sausage links
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ¾ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ tablespoon lime juice
• 8 oz mozzarella or cheese of your choice
• 10 corn tortillas

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Toss the chicken with lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, oregano, and chili powder to coat.
   • Remove the sausage from its casing and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken and Sausage:
   • Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook for 2 minutes.
   • Push the chicken to the sides of the pan and add the sausage. Use a spatula to break up the sausage as it cooks, mixing it with the chicken until both the chicken and sausage are browned and cooked through.
   • Transfer the chicken and sausage mixture, along with any juices, into a bowl and set aside.
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
   • Brush a small amount of the chicken and sausage juices onto the bottom of the skillet using a pastry brush. Place two tortillas in the pan and cook them for about 1 minute, or until they begin to brown.
   • Flip the tortillas and sprinkle with cheese. Continue cooking until the cheese melts.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   • Add a spoonful of the chicken and sausage mixture onto one side of each tortilla.
   • Top with diced onions and cilantro.
   • Fold the tortillas in half with a spatula and press them down for 20 to 30 seconds.
   • Flip the tacos and continue cooking for 1 to 2 more minutes until the tortillas are crispy.
5. Repeat and Serve:
   • Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas until all tacos are prepared. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken and Sausage Tacos offer the perfect combination of savory, juicy chicken and flavorful Italian sausage wrapped in a crispy tortilla with melted cheese. The spices and lime juice create a zesty and satisfying flavor, while the cilantro and onions add freshness and crunch. They’re simple to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

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Tips

• Tortilla Crispy Tips: Make sure to press the tortillas down for a few seconds to get that perfect crispy texture on both sides.
• Cheese Choice: Mozzarella gives a mild and creamy taste, but feel free to swap it for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese for a more pronounced flavor.
• Meat Variations: You can substitute the chicken and sausage with other proteins like ground beef or turkey for a different twist.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage and skip the chicken for a vegetarian version of these tasty tacos.
• Spicy Kick: If you like more heat, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the taco filling or sprinkle some chili flakes on top.
• Taco Toppings: Customize your tacos with additional toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

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FAQs

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
While tacos are best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sausage filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling the tacos.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

How do I store leftover tacos?
Store the leftover taco filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it and assemble fresh tacos when ready.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these Chicken and Sausage Tacos with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple avocado salad. For extra flavor, drizzle them with your favorite hot sauce or top with a dollop of sour cream. These tacos are also great for taco nights or casual family dinners!