Dill Pickle Ranch Smash Chicken Tacos with Crispy Cheese
These delicious Dill Pickle Ranch Smash Chicken Tacos with Crispy Cheese are juicy, tangy, and crunchy, making them a perfect easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken Lean protein base.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Pantry staple.
- 1 tsp paprika Use smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- to taste Salt and black pepper Season to taste.
- 8 small tortillas Corn or flour tortillas.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese Crispy cheese for topping.
- ½ cup chopped dill pickles Secret ingredient for tanginess.
- 2 tbsp pickle brine For added flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cabbage Can be green or purple.
- ½ cup cottage cheese Blended for ranch sauce.
- 1 tsp ranch seasoning For the creamy ranch sauce.
- 1 squeeze fresh lemon For freshness.
- Oil for cooking Oil for cooking the chicken Drizzle in the skillet.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil, then add the chicken mixture and break it into small pieces.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and golden.
Crispy Cheese
- In a nonstick pan over medium-low heat, sprinkle small rounds of shredded cheese, about 2 tablespoons per round.
- Let them cook for 3-4 minutes until melted and lacy, then carefully lift them off and transfer to a plate.
Ranch Sauce
- Blend cottage cheese with ranch seasoning and lemon until smooth, adjusting flavor as needed.
Assembling Tacos
- Warm tortillas in a dry pan for about 30 seconds per side.
- Add a scoop of chicken to each tortilla, top with pickles, cabbage, and drizzle ranch sauce and pickle brine on top.
- Finish by adding crispy cheese either inside the taco or on the side.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For meal prep, store components separately and assemble fresh. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days. For kids, serve components deconstructed for a fun build-your-own taco experience.