Mr. Pink Taco from Torchy's Tacos features tender grilled chicken tossed in a zesty chipotle lime sauce, topped with fresh cabbage, pico de gallo, and creamy avocado crema, all wrapped in a warm, soft corn tortilla for a vibrant and flavorful taco experience.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Small whisk or fork
- Blender or food processor (for avocado crema)
- Serving platter or plate
- Saucepan or skillet (optional, to warm tortillas)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup pico de gallo (prepared or homemade)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for crema)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (for crema)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (for crema)
- 8 small corn tortillas
Fresh chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provide the signature smoky heat, but canned versions work well if fresh are unavailable. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds juiciness, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option. Fresh lime juice and zest are crucial for the bright tang that balances the smoky spices and creamy avocado crema. The avocado crema combines ripe avocado, sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice to create a smooth, zesty topping that complements the grilled chicken perfectly. Your homemade Mr. Pink Taco from Torchy's Tacos copycat menu will capture the authentic bold flavors and vibrant textures of the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with marinade.
- Let chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice grilled chicken into thin strips.
- To make avocado crema, blend avocado, sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
- Warm corn tortillas in a saucepan, skillet, or directly on the grill for 20-30 seconds per side.
- To assemble tacos, place a layer of shredded cabbage on each tortilla.
- Add grilled chicken strips on top of cabbage.
- Spoon pico de gallo over chicken.
- Drizzle with avocado crema.
- Serve immediately on a platter or plate.
Substitution
When making a copycat version of Mr. Pink Taco from Torchy's Tacos, you can substitute grilled chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs offer more tenderness and flavor. If fresh lime juice is unavailable, bottled lime juice works in a pinch, though it may slightly alter the brightness of the chipotle lime sauce. In the absence of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, smoked paprika combined with a bit of hot sauce can mimic the smoky heat. Your avocado crema can be prepared without a blender by mashing the avocado with a fork and thoroughly mixing in the remaining ingredients for a creamy texture. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave if a grill or grill pan is not accessible to keep them soft and pliable.
Tips
Marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes to ensure deep flavor infusion from the chipotle lime sauce. Use medium-high heat on your grill or grill pan to achieve a nice char while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its moisture and prevent dryness. Warm the corn tortillas just before assembling so they stay soft and pliable for easy folding around your flavorful fillings.
Nutritions
Mr. Pink Taco from Torchy's Tacos offers a nutrient-rich meal with high-quality protein from grilled chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. The chipotle lime sauce and avocado crema add healthy fats and antioxidants, including monounsaturated fats from avocado, which support heart health. Fresh cabbage and pico de gallo contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and important minerals that aid digestion and immune function. Your taco provides balanced macros and micronutrients ideal for a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep pico de gallo and avocado crema in separate sealed containers to prevent spoilage, with avocado crema best consumed within 1-2 days due to its sensitivity to oxidation. Warm tortillas can be wrapped in foil and stored at room temperature for a day or refrigerated briefly; reheat before serving to restore softness for your next taco meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content while keeping the flavor intact. Try adding fresh cilantro and diced jalapenos to your pico de gallo for an extra spicy kick. Use a food processor to blend the avocado crema for a smoother texture, or substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the sauce. Warming tortillas in a skillet with a sprinkle of chili powder and salt enhances their flavor and adds a subtle smoky heat.
Allergies
The Mr. Pink Taco contains ingredients like chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, and avocado, which may trigger allergies in some individuals. If you have dairy allergies, the sour cream and mayonnaise could pose a risk, while the avocado and certain spices might cause reactions in others sensitive to nightshades or food preservatives. Always check ingredient labels carefully and consult with your healthcare provider to ensure this taco is safe for your consumption.
Why this recipe?
Mr. Pink Taco's menu at Torchy's Tacos is beloved for its bold blend of smoky adobo-marinated chicken and tangy, spicy pickled jalapenos, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This unique combination of fresh ingredients and carefully crafted sauces offers a taste experience that stands out from typical taco offerings. Many fans appreciate the menu's innovative approach to traditional tacos, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Your attempt to make the Mr. Pink Taco copycat can bring this distinctive flavor home, allowing you to enjoy the restaurant's signature dish anytime while customizing it to your preference.