Description
These Spicy Hatch Chili Chicken Mini Tacos are perfect for flavorful gatherings, featuring tender chicken thighs marinated with smoky spices and tangy chipotle glaze, served on warm corn mini-tortillas topped with crunchy red cabbage and fresh cilantro for a vibrant and tasty bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ of 2 fresh Hatch green chilies, seeded and minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
Glaze
- 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tbsp honey
- Remaining ½ of 2 fresh Hatch green chilies, seeded and minced
- 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo, finely chopped
Toppings and Assembly
- 8 corn mini-tortillas (warmed)
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the minced Hatch chilies. Drizzle with olive oil, toss well to ensure all pieces are coated, and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, the remaining minced Hatch chilies, and finely chopped chipotle in adobo until glossy. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water to reach a drizzling consistency.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each corn mini-tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they become soft and pliable. Alternatively, microwave the tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds to achieve softness.
- Cook and Assemble the Tacos: Using the prepared chicken and glaze, place 2 to 3 pieces of the glazed chicken onto each warmed tortilla. Top with a generous amount of thinly sliced red cabbage for crunch. Drizzle additional glaze over the top and finish by sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro. Serve the mini tacos immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, leave some of the Hatch chilies’ seeds in when mincing.
- To save time, chicken can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh, firm tortillas for best texture and taste.
- Adjust the honey in the glaze to balance the spice levels according to preference.
- These mini tacos are great for parties or as appetizers.
