Blackened Chicken Tacos Recipe

These easy and flavorful blackened chicken tacos made with chicken tenderloins are simple, quick and boldly delicious. Try this yummy recipe for Taco Tuesday or Cinco de Mayo. It’s a fun and festive meal you can serve any day of the week. For another delcious chicken recipe check out this dijon mustard chicken!

What is blackened chicken?

The blackening technique refers to meat or seafood that is coated in butter or oil, covered in the blackened seasoning and then seared over a medium high heat.

The pan searing-process is what darkens this spice mix, resulting in a crisp outer layer on the chicken. This seals in the chicken juices, creating a delectably tender inside.

The tenderloin is my preferred cut when it comes to blackened chicken tacos. Chicken tenderloin like chicken breast is also white meat, but it is a thinner, smaller, and more flavorful cut of meat. It’s also more tender than chicken breast.

Chicken tenderloins are also good for making creamy chipotle chicken.

Traditional Blackened seasonings contain the following:

• Salt 
• Onion Powder
• Granulated Garlic
• Thyme 
• Basil
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Smoked Paprika 
• Cumin 
• Cayenne, Black, and White Pepper

Blackened seasoning vs Cajun seasoning

While both blackened and Cajun seasonings originated in Louisiana and both contain some heat, there are a few differences. Blackened seasoning is a dry rub combo that is mild to spicy, depending on the chef. On the heat scale, blackened seasoning mixes usually fall to the center. Cajun seasoning has more heat to it. On the other hand, it is simple to add a bit more kick to the blackened seasoning mix.  

Blackened seasoning also tastes great on meats and vegetables. Try this thin sliced chicken breast with cajun seasoning for a little more heat next.

Ingredients needed

For the blackened chicken tacos

• Chicken tenderloins
• Olive oil
• Blackened seasoning
• Corn tortillas

For garnishing

• Roma tomato (diced)
• Avocado (diced)
• Red onion (sliced)
• Fresh limes (cut)

How to make the blackened chicken tenders

Put the chicken tenderloins in a large bowl. Add a little olive oil and the blackened seasoning and rub into the chicken until well coated.

Heat the remaining oil in a skillet over medium high heat.

Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes. Do not move the chicken.

Next, flip the chicken and cook for 5 more minutes without moving it.

Transfer the blackened chicken tenders to a cutting board and let rest for about 5 minutes. Then chop it into bite sized pieces.

How to assemble the blackened chicken tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in the microwave. Fill the corn tortillas with the chopped chicken. Then top with the garnishes. Squeeze the fresh cut limes over the tacos and serve.

The fresh lime juice really enhances the flavor of the tacos so don’t forget the limes!

Blackened chicken tacos recipe

This blackened chicken taco recipe is super easy and perfect for busy weeknights. It can be ready and on the table in just 30 minutes! Both kids and adults will love it.

Let me know what you think of this recipe in the comments below. And don’t forget to leave it a rating!