This is one of those recipes that may seem a little strange and unconventional, but it is absolutely delicious! It’s packed with protein, healthy fats and vegetables, and packed with flavor. My children devoured them, they are very good.
There’s a good chance you’ve heard of Caesar salad before. I have a recipe on the site as well as several variations of Caesar salad dressing. These tacos combine those flavors for a crunchy and delicious version. They are best served fresh, but you can mix the ingredients beforehand to prepare the meal.
Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos
The traditional Caesar salad features a creamy dressing made with anchovies, garlic, mustard and more. Plus crispy romaine lettuce leaves and large croutons. It has certainly evolved over the years, but the flavors and ingredients remain largely the same. And while I still love a good Caesar salad, these delicious Chicken Caesar Tacos are a nice take on the classic.
Like most tacos, these use a tortilla base. You can use whatever you prefer, but I used organic flour tortillas. Almond flour, cassava flour, or other tortillas would also work. Just choose something that isn’t too big so it’s easier to turn them over.
Here’s the twist: We squish a seasoned chicken mixture onto the tortilla and cook it until golden brown and crispy. This contains a lot of protein and adds delicious flavor. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, garlic and onion.
Caesar dressing
However, what really makes a Caesar salad good is the dressing. I have a quick version here and a more traditional Caesar dressing here. This recipe uses a mixture of mayonnaise and yogurt for a creamy, tangy dressing. Worcestershire sauce and anchovy paste add some earthy flavors. Lemon adds brightness and flavor, while herbs and parmesan add another layer of flavor and creaminess.
I often use homemade mayonnaise because it’s healthy and easy to make. Many times, however, I turn to Primal Kitchen’s Avocado Oil Mayonnaise. Making your own mayonnaise and sauces is simple, but sometimes with 7 kids grabbing a pre-made jar it’s easier. Fortunately, there are now some pretty good store-bought mayonnaise options. Thrive Market is another way to easily stock up on healthy pantry essentials.
Moving forward
Once the tacos are cooked and assembled, they taste best fresh. However, you can mix the chicken mixture and dressing beforehand to make the meal easier to prepare. I doubled the recipe so we had enough for 2 meals. The dressing actually tastes better after it has been in the refrigerator for a while to allow the flavors to blend better.
These Shredded Chicken Caesar Tacos are fresh, crunchy, and offer a balanced meal that I can get behind. Below we explain how to do them.
Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos
Crunchy, protein-packed tacos with all the flavors of a classic Caesar salad. Full of vegetables, healthy fats and absolutely delicious!
For the assembly of tacos
- 7 small tortillas (cassava flour, almond flour, sourdough or traditional flour tortillas)
- 1 TBSP butter (or ghee or avocado oil)
- 1 head romaine lettuce (finely crushed)
- extra parmesan cheese to serve
- fresh parsley (chopped)
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, mustard, anchovy paste, parsley, and black pepper until smooth.
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Add the Parmesan cheese and refrigerate while you prepare the tacos. The flavors intensify as the dressing cools.
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Combine the ground chicken, Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix gently until combined.
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Avoid overmixing to keep the chicken tender.
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Spread about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture over each tortilla, pressing it into an even layer that reaches the edges. If the chicken sticks to your hands, lightly oil your fingers or use parchment paper to press it into place.
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter, ghee, or avocado oil.
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Place the tacos chicken side down in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken forms a golden crust. Flip the tacos and reduce the heat slightly. Continue cooking another 2 to 3 minutes until the tortilla is lightly crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining tacos.
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Toss shredded romaine lettuce with enough Caesar dressing to lightly coat.
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Top each taco with dressed romaine lettuce, additional parmesan, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of additional dressing.
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Serve immediately while the chicken is crispy and the lettuce is cool and crisp.
Nutritional data
Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos
Amount per serving (1 taco)
calories 475
Fat 324 Calories
% Daily Value*
Fat 36g55%
Saturated Fat 9g56%
Trans fat 0.2 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 16g
Monounsaturated Fat 9g
Cholesterol 80mg27%
Sodium 914mg40%
Potassium 665mg19%
carbohydrates 20g7%
3g fiber13%
3g sugar3%
Protein 19g38%
vitamin a 7935UI159%
vitamin c 5mg6%
Calcium 190mg19%
Iron 3mg17%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Try adding some bacon to the dressing for even more flavor!
What are some of your favorite taco fillings? Leave a comment and let us know!
