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Olivia

Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos

Bold, crispy, and loaded with Caesar flavor, these Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos feature juicy ground chicken smashed onto tortillas, crisp romaine, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing. Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or Taco Tuesday!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 head romaine lettuce shredded
  • 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan
For the Caesar Dressing:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp anchovy paste optional, but recommended
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
  • Fresh cracked pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine.
  2. Divide the chicken into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a loose ball.
  3. Preheat a nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla on the hot skillet.
  4. Press a ball of seasoned chicken directly onto the tortilla using a spatula or burger press. Flatten it evenly so it sticks and starts cooking immediately.
  5. Cook 3–4 minutes, then flip carefully so the chicken is now face-down on the skillet. Cook another 3–4 minutes until chicken is cooked through and golden.
  6. Remove and repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken.
  7. While tacos cook, whisk together all Caesar dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
  8. To assemble: Top each taco with shredded romaine, shaved Parmesan, and a drizzle of Caesar dressing.
  9. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.

Notes

Smash Chicken Caesar Tacos – Helpful Tips

Cooking Tips & Techniques
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or thin-sliced breasts for the best texture — they sear beautifully when smashed on a hot skillet or griddle.
Smash the seasoned chicken directly onto the tortilla while cooking, letting the juices soak into the tortilla as it crisps.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — smash and sear one or two tacos at a time for the crispiest result.
Use freshly grated parmesan and crisp romaine for that classic Caesar crunch and sharp, salty bite.
Warm the tortillas before cooking for flexibility and better crisping during the smash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with extra Caesar dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Top with fresh lemon zest, cracked black pepper, or a few anchovy slices for bold, restaurant-style flair.
Pair with a simple arugula salad or roasted potatoes to round out the meal.
Makes a great lunch, light dinner, or party-ready handheld — perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead: Prep your Caesar salad mix and cook the chicken in advance. Store separately and assemble tacos fresh.
Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken and salad in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Store tortillas separately to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken portions (unassembled) for up to 2 months. Thaw and smash-cook on tortillas when ready to eat.
Reheat: Reheat chicken in a skillet until hot, then smash onto tortillas as you re-crisp for that fresh-off-the-pan texture.
Tasty Variations to Try
Buffalo Caesar Tacos: Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce before smashing for a spicy twist.
Grilled Chicken Version: Use marinated grilled chicken instead of smashed for a lighter summer-friendly variation.
Low-Carb Wraps: Swap flour tortillas for low-carb or lettuce wraps to keep it keto-friendly.
Crispy Bacon Caesar: Add chopped crispy bacon for smoky crunch in every bite.
Vegetarian Caesar Tacos: Use smashed chickpea patties or grilled halloumi in place of chicken.