Easy Chicken Tacos
These Chicken Tacos deliver 22g protein and 286 calories per serving—a lean lunch that fits multiple macro frameworks. Batch-preps 6 servings in minutes on the stovetop, making it a quick option for hitting midweek meal-prep deadlines. Use these when you need high-protein lunches that don't require extended prep time between training sessions.
Ingredients
- •Taco Seasoning, Packet (E.G. Old El Paso)(45g)
Taco seasoning packet — Old El Paso or McCormick. Low sodium if available.
- •Olive oil(60g)
Regular (not extra-virgin) olive oil for high-heat cooking. EVOO for dressings.
- •Lime Juice, Fresh(30g)
- •Chicken Thigh, Boneless Skinless(680g)
Boneless skinless thighs. Fattier than breast but more forgiving to cook.
- •Flour Tortillas
- •Lettuce, Romaine
- •Avocado
- •Yellow Onion
- •Cilantro, Fresh
- •Pico De Gallo, Fresh(240g)
- •Sour Cream
Regular or fat-free both work. Fat-free is thinner but saves ~40 cal/serving.
- •Lime
Instructions
- 1In a large bowl, stir together the taco seasoning, oil and lime juice. Add the chicken and toss to coat.
- 2Cook the chicken thighs:Grill: Preheat the grill to high. Reduce heat to medium, then add the chicken and cook until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes per side. Oven: Preheat oven to 425° F with a rack in the center position. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper. Place the chicken in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Bake until the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.Stove top: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the chicken (you may have to work in batches). Cook until browned and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes per side.
- 3Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. Cut into bite-sized pieces. Divide the chicken equally among the warmed tortillas.
- 4To serve, top each taco with cheese, lettuce, avocado, onion, cilantro, salsa, and sour cream. Serve the tacos with lime wedges for squeezing.
Nutrition — Per Serving
286
calories
22g
protein
19g
fat
- Carbohydrates
- 7g
- Saturated fat
- 3.3g
- Sodium
- 624 mg
- Dietary fiber
- 0.4g
6 servings per batch · ~176g each
Macro data sourced from USDA FoodData Central
AI Swap Engine
Set up your profile to enable swaps →Common questions
How much protein does Easy Chicken Tacos have per serving?
Each taco contains 22g of protein and 286 calories, with 19g fat and 7g carbs. The macros provide a balanced ratio suitable for maintaining or building muscle without excess calories.
How long does Easy Chicken Tacos take to prep?
This recipe has quick prep time and makes 6 servings in a single batch, so you can prepare multiple days of lunches at once. Stovetop preparation keeps total cooking time manageable.
Are Easy Chicken Tacos good for muscle gain?
At 22g protein and 286 calories per taco, these fit well into muscle-gain meal plans as a reliable lunch option that supports daily protein accumulation. The carbohydrate content aids energy and recovery.
