While the chicken is resting, I focus on the slaw. In a mixing bowl, I combine the cottage cheese, shredded dill pickles, shredded carrots, chopped dill, and lime juice. The fresh dill gives the slaw such an invigorating aroma! I mix everything together until it’s well combined. The creaminess of the cottage cheese mixed with the crunch of the pickles and carrots creates an irresistible contrast that I can’t get enough of.
Next, I warm the tortillas in the dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable. This little step elevates the entire taco experience! Once the tortillas are ready, I assemble the tacos by adding a generous scoop of the smashed chicken followed by a hearty portion of the cottage cheese dill pickle slaw. Honestly, it’s hard to resist diving right into them right away.
To serve, I pop the tacos on a platter and drizzle hot sauce on top for those who like a bit of heat. I often set up a taco bar with additional toppings like sliced avocados or salsa, allowing everyone to customize their tacos just how they like. Everyone always comes back for seconds, and it warms my heart to see them enjoying the meal!
Pro Tips for Best Results
When I first started making these tacos, I realized that the quality of the chicken makes a huge difference. I tested this three ways: with frozen chicken, from the deli, and fresh from my local butcher. The fresh chicken brought out the best flavor and tenderness, so I recommend splurging a little for this dish!
Another tip I learned is not to skip resting the chicken after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even juicier when you smash it. It’s such a small step but truly elevates the final dish.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to get a little creative with the slaw. I sometimes add a touch of honey or a dash of mustard to enhance the flavors. After all, my kitchen is all about experimenting and finding what flavors you love!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made when I first started experimenting with smash chicken tacos was not marinating the chicken long enough. I quickly learned that even just 30 minutes with the seasoning can make the chicken more flavorful and tender. If you have the time, marinate it for a few hours or overnight for even better results. (See the next page below to continue…)