Northshore Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks feature tender shredded chicken, fresh shredded lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pico de gallo all nestled inside a warm, soft corn tortilla, delivering a vibrant and flavorful island-inspired bite.
Equipments
- Saucepan or pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Tongs
- Grater (if needed for cheese/toppings)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving plates
- Paper towels (for draining, if needed)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Ensure you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to achieve the tender shredded texture essential for Northshore Tacos. Freshly shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes provide a crisp contrast, while the tangy pico de gallo adds vibrant flavor that complements the seasoned chicken cooked with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Warm your corn tortillas properly to maintain softness and prevent tearing when assembling the tacos. You might want to have lime wedges ready as an optional zesty finishing touch to brighten each bite. These ingredients come together perfectly in this Northshore Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks copycat menu, delivering that authentic island-inspired taste.
Instructions
- Gather all equipment and ingredients.
- Place chicken breasts on cutting board; pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan or pot over medium heat.
- Add seasoned chicken breasts to the pot; sear each side until lightly browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Add chicken broth to the pot.
- Cover and simmer chicken over medium-low heat until fully cooked and tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Remove chicken from pot; let cool slightly.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken.
- Return shredded chicken to saucepan and mix with remaining juices.
- Wash and shred lettuce; set aside.
- Wash and dice tomatoes; set aside.
- Warm corn tortillas in a skillet or sauté pan over medium heat until soft and pliable.
- On each tortilla, layer shredded chicken, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and pico de gallo.
- Optionally, grate cheese if desired and add to tacos.
- Serve tacos on plates with lime wedges on the side.
Substitution
Northshore Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks deliver tender shredded chicken with fresh shredded lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pico de gallo wrapped in warm corn tortillas. If you don't have chicken breasts, boneless thighs can be used for juicier meat although cooking time may vary. Corn tortillas can be substituted with flour tortillas, but they will alter the authentic island flavor and texture. Use homemade or store-bought pico de gallo depending on time availability, and always drain any excess liquid from tomatoes to prevent soggy tacos. Your lime wedges enhance the tangy notes though they remain optional based on personal taste preferences.
Tips
When cooking the shredded chicken, ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. Patting the chicken dry before seasoning prevents excess moisture, allowing the spices to adhere better and enhancing flavor. Warm the corn tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable, preventing cracks or breaks while assembling your tacos. You can drizzle fresh lime juice over the finished tacos to elevate the island-inspired flavor profile and add a refreshing zest.
Nutritions
Northshore Tacos provide a well-balanced source of lean protein from the shredded chicken breasts, which supports muscle repair and growth. Fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes contribute essential vitamins like A and C, along with dietary fiber to aid digestion. Corn tortillas offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy without the gluten found in flour tortillas. You can enhance the nutritional profile by adding lime wedges, which provide a boost of vitamin C for immune support.
Storage
To store your Northshore Tacos ingredients, place the shredded chicken and pico de gallo in separate airtight containers and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Keep the corn tortillas wrapped in foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for longer storage, reheating them gently before serving. Your shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes should be stored in airtight containers lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and maintain crispness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs to enhance juiciness and flavor in your Northshore Tacos. Instead of simmering, try slow cooking the seasoned chicken in a Crock-Pot for 4-6 hours on low to achieve extra tenderness. If corn tortillas are unavailable, warm flour tortillas can be used as a softer alternative. Adding a drizzle of creamy avocado crema or a sprinkle of cotija cheese elevates the tacos with richness and texture.
Allergies
Your Northshore Tacos contain ingredients such as chicken, corn tortillas, and various spices that may trigger allergies in some individuals. Corn tortillas can cause reactions in those with a corn allergy, while the chili powder and spices might irritate people sensitive to nightshades. It is important to check for any specific allergies to chicken, tomatoes, or spices before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Northshore Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks feature a perfect blend of fresh fish, vibrant slaw, and a tangy sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that seafood enthusiasts crave. The generous portion sizes and authentic island-inspired seasoning make these tacos a standout choice on the menu. You will appreciate the use of quality ingredients and unique preparation techniques that make replicating this dish both rewarding and delicious. Crafting a copycat version allows you to enjoy a taste of the islands at home while impressing friends with a restaurant-quality meal.