These shredded chicken tacos with creamy chimichurri sauce bring together juicy, seasoned chicken, fresh toppings, and a vibrant sauce that ties everything together. The creamy chimichurri adds a herby, tangy kick with just the right amount of richness, making every bite irresistible. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and exciting at once.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe offers bold, zesty flavors without a lot of fuss. The creamy chimichurri sauce is a game changer—it’s fresh, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced with creamy yogurt and mayo. I also appreciate how versatile this dish is; I can dress it up for a dinner party or keep it casual for a weeknight meal. It’s a fast favorite in my kitchen.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
- Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- Mayonnaise
- Minced shallot
- Finely chopped parsley
- Finely chopped cilantro
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic (pressed or grated)
- Kosher salt
For the Shredded Chicken Filling:
- Avocado oil
- Chicken breast
- Garlic powder
- Kosher salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- Finely chopped red onion
- Finely chopped cilantro
For the Tacos and Toppings:
- Small flour tortillas
- Shredded romaine lettuce
- Sliced avocado
- Crumbled feta cheese
Directions
- Make the creamy chimichurri sauce: I whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, shallot, parsley, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, and salt in a bowl until smooth. I let it sit while I prep everything else so the flavors really come together.
- Season and cook the chicken: I mix garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then coat the chicken evenly. After letting it sit for 10 minutes, I sear it in a skillet with avocado oil until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Then I let it rest before shredding.
- Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, I deglaze with a splash of water, then toss in sliced jalapeños and red onion. I sauté them until they’re soft and slightly crispy.
- Combine everything: I add the shredded chicken back to the skillet with the veggies and toss in fresh cilantro. I stir everything together until well mixed and heated through.
- Assemble the tacos: I warm the tortillas, then layer in romaine, chicken mixture, avocado, feta, and finish with a drizzle of chimichurri sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 tacos (serves 2–3 people)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- I sometimes swap out romaine for arugula or spinach for a different kind of crunch.
- If I’m out of feta, cotija or a sprinkle of cheddar works just as well.
- For a vegetarian twist, I replace chicken with crispy tofu or roasted mushrooms.
- I make it spicier with a dash of hot sauce or by keeping the jalapeño seeds in.
- I’ve also tried this with corn tortillas for a gluten-free version—it’s just as delicious.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: I keep leftover chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: I reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it juicy. I always assemble the tacos fresh so they don’t get soggy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought chimichurri?
I prefer homemade for the fresh flavor, but store-bought works in a pinch. I just mix it with yogurt and mayo to keep that creamy texture.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
I use two forks to pull it apart while it’s still warm—it’s much easier. Sometimes I use a hand mixer on low for quick shredding.
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes, grilled chicken adds great smoky flavor. I just season it the same way and grill it until cooked through before shredding.
How do I keep tortillas from tearing?
I warm them in a dry skillet or microwave them with a damp paper towel for a few seconds to keep them soft and pliable.
What else can I use the chimichurri sauce for?
It’s amazing on grilled meats, roasted veggies, sandwiches, or even as a salad dressing. I always make extra.
Conclusion
These shredded chicken tacos with creamy chimichurri sauce are a flavor-packed meal that comes together quickly and easily. I love how every component adds something special—from the juicy chicken to the crisp veggies and that creamy, herb-filled sauce. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to, whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just craving a killer taco night.
Print
Shredded Chicken Tacos with Creamy Chimichurri Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 tacos (serves 2–3 people)
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
These shredded chicken tacos with creamy chimichurri sauce are the ultimate weeknight dinner—juicy, flavorful shredded chicken paired with a zesty, herby chimichurri yogurt sauce. Quick to make and packed with fresh ingredients, these tacos are a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
- For the Creamy Chimichurri Sauce:
Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
Mayonnaise
1 small shallot, minced
¼ cup finely chopped parsley
¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, pressed or grated
½ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Make the Chimichurri Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, shallot, parsley, cilantro, olive oil, garlic, and salt until creamy. Let sit to blend flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in a skillet with avocado oil over medium heat, 4–5 minutes per side. Let rest, then shred.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, deglaze with a splash of water. Add jalapeño and red onion, sauté until soft and lightly crispy.
- Combine: Return shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir in chopped cilantro. Mix until heated through and evenly combined.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm tortillas, then fill with romaine, chicken mixture, avocado, feta, and drizzle of chimichurri sauce.
Notes
- Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat chicken in a skillet with a splash of water for moisture.
- Swap romaine for arugula or spinach for a different texture.
- Use cotija or cheddar if feta isn’t available.
- Make it spicier by keeping jalapeño seeds or adding hot sauce.