Signature Tacos from Costa Vida feature tender grilled chicken or seasoned steak, fresh shredded lettuce, ripe diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese nestled inside warm, soft corn tortillas, delivering a flavorful combination of savory, fresh, and mildly spicy tastes.
Equipments
- Grill
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon
- Taco assembly tray or plate
- Warming drawer or microwave (for tortillas)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 small corn tortillas
When selecting your protein, boneless, skinless chicken breast or steak works best for tender, juicy results that absorb the spices evenly. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and crisp shredded lettuce to maintain a bright, fresh contrast to the savory, mildly spicy meat. Corn tortillas should be warmed before assembling to ensure they are soft and pliable, preventing tears and making the tacos easier to fold. Measuring spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper precisely will create the signature balanced flavor typical of Costa Vida's tacos. Your homemade Signature Tacos from Costa Vida copycat menu will capture the authentic taste and texture, delivering a satisfying meal.
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Pat chicken or steak dry with paper towels.
- Rub meat with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle and rub seasoning mixture evenly over meat.
- Place meat on the grill.
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or steak for 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Remove from grill and let rest 5 minutes.
- Thinly slice or chop cooked chicken/steak on cutting board.
- Using a knife, shred lettuce and dice tomatoes.
- Grate cheddar cheese using cheese grater.
- Warm corn tortillas in warming drawer or microwave until soft.
- Lay tortillas flat on assembly tray or plate.
- Place grilled chicken or steak onto center of each tortilla.
- Top with shredded lettuce.
- Add diced tomatoes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Signature Tacos from Costa Vida copycat menu can be adapted by swapping chicken or steak with shrimp or grilled vegetables for a different protein or vegetarian option. You can use flour tortillas instead of corn if you prefer a softer texture or have difficulty finding authentic corn tortillas. Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese works as an alternative to cheddar cheese while maintaining a mild, creamy flavor. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, canned diced tomatoes with a bit of drained liquid can provide a similar taste and texture. Make sure to warm tortillas properly using a warming drawer or microwave to keep them pliable and avoid tearing during assembly.
Tips
Always pat your meat dry before seasoning to ensure the spices adhere well and create a flavorful crust during grilling. Let the cooked chicken or steak rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat. Warm corn tortillas properly until soft but not soggy, enhancing their flexibility and preventing tearing during assembly. Use a sharp knife for slicing meat and vegetables to maintain clean cuts, making your tacos visually appealing and easier to eat.
Nutritions
Signature Tacos from Costa Vida provide a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The grilled chicken or steak offers lean protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth, while the fresh shredded lettuce and ripe diced tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Shredded cheddar cheese adds calcium and healthy fats, enhancing the meal's nutrient density. Your body benefits from the combination of complex spices like cumin and chili powder, which may support metabolism and digestion.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken or steak in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese in separate sealed containers to avoid moisture mixing and sogginess. Warm tortillas can be wrapped in foil or placed in a sealed bag and stored at room temperature for short periods, but refrigerate any unused tortillas to extend their shelf life.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken or steak for grilled shrimp or carnitas pork to vary the protein while maintaining the authentic taco flavor. Consider adding sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream to introduce creamy texture and coolness that balances the spices. For a healthier twist, substitute shredded cheddar with crumbled queso fresco or reduced-fat cheese options. Toasting the corn tortillas directly on the grill before assembly adds a smoky, charred note that enhances the overall taste experience.
Allergies
Signature Tacos from Costa Vida contain common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and potentially gluten if the corn tortillas are processed in facilities handling wheat. The use of spices like cumin and chili powder may also cause reactions in individuals sensitive to certain herbs or spices. If you have food allergies, carefully check ingredient labels and inform your server about your specific allergies to ensure a safe dining experience.
Why this recipe?
Signature Tacos from Costa Vida restaurant are beloved for their fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and authentic Mexican-inspired recipes. Each taco features carefully marinated meats, vibrant salsas, and freshly made tortillas, delivering a satisfying and flavorful experience. Trying your hand at a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this delicious meal at home, ensuring control over ingredient quality and customization to your taste preferences. Your kitchen can become a hub for crafting authentic tacos that rival the restaurant's renowned offerings.