Chicken Tinga Tacos from Bar Louie feature tender shredded chicken simmered in a smoky, spicy chipotle tomato sauce, nestled in warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime, delivering a vibrant and flavorful Mexican street-food experience.
Equipments
- Saucepan or skillet
- Mixing spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Forks (for shredding chicken)
- Tongs
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving platter or plate
- Small bowls (for toppings)
- Kitchen towel (for warming tortillas)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro
- 1 small white onion
- 2 limes
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs affects the tenderness and juiciness of your Chicken Tinga Tacos from Bar Louie, with thighs offering a richer flavor and more moisture. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provide the dish's signature smoky heat, so adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level. Fresh corn tortillas should be warmed before serving to enhance their texture and complement the saucy chicken filling. Make sure to finely dice the white onion and chop fresh cilantro to maintain the authentic freshness typical of Mexican street food. Your Chicken Tinga Tacos from Bar Louie copycat menu will shine when these ingredients are balanced precisely.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Chop chipotle peppers.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion; sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic; cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Nestle chicken breasts/thighs into the sauce.
- Bring to a simmer; cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken and shred using two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Dice the small white onion and chop fresh cilantro.
- Warm corn tortillas with a kitchen towel using a warm skillet or microwave.
- Fill tortillas with chicken tinga mixture.
- Top with diced onion, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chicken Tinga Tacos from Bar Louie copycat menu can be adapted by using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat or chicken breasts for a leaner option. If chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are unavailable, substitute with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to mimic the smoky heat. Corn tortillas can be gently warmed in a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp kitchen towel and microwaved to enhance pliability and flavor. Your fresh toppings like cilantro, diced onions, and lime juice add essential brightness that balances the smoky and spicy sauce. Use tongs and forks carefully to shred the chicken evenly, ensuring a consistent texture in every taco bite.
Tips
Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly in the chipotle tomato sauce until it reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safety and tenderness. Use two forks to shred the chicken finely, allowing it to absorb more flavor when returned to simmer in the sauce. Warm the corn tortillas just before serving, wrapping them in a kitchen towel to keep them soft and pliable for easy folding. Your toppings of fresh cilantro, diced white onion, and lime juice add essential brightness and texture to balance the smoky, spicy chicken tinga.
Nutritions
Chicken Tinga Tacos are a balanced source of lean protein, primarily from the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, which support muscle maintenance and repair. The chipotle tomato sauce adds antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C and A from the crushed tomatoes and spices, boosting your immune health. Corn tortillas provide gluten-free complex carbohydrates, offering a steady energy source, while fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime juice contribute additional fiber and micronutrients. This combination ensures you enjoy a flavorful dish rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals for overall well-being.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Tinga in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain its smoky, spicy flavor. To prevent tortillas from drying out, wrap them in a damp kitchen towel and keep them in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator. When reheating, warm the chicken sauce gently on the stove and the tortillas with a damp towel in the microwave or on a skillet for best texture and taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken breasts or thighs for shredded rotisserie chicken to save cooking time while keeping the smoky chipotle flavor. For a smoky depth without chipotle peppers, try using smoked paprika mixed with a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder. Corn tortillas can be lightly toasted on a dry skillet before warming to add crunch and enhance texture. Adding avocado slices or crumbled queso fresco as toppings introduces creaminess and balances the spice for your tacos.
Allergies
Your Chicken Tinga Tacos contain common allergens such as garlic and onions, which may trigger sensitivities or reactions in some individuals. The corn tortillas, while generally gluten-free, could pose a risk if cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains during processing. It is important to check labels and consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific food allergies or intolerances.
Why this recipe?
Chicken Tinga Tacos from Bar Louie restaurant captivate diners with their smoky chipotle chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and balanced spices, delivering a flavorful, authentic Mexican experience. The tacos are complemented by fresh toppings like diced onions and cilantro, enhancing their texture and freshness. Making a copycat version lets you customize spice levels and ingredients, adding a personal touch to this popular dish. Your homemade creation offers an affordable, delicious way to enjoy a restaurant favorite anytime.