Chicken Taco Tortas Recipe

 Chicken Taco Tortas are a Mexican-inspired twist on the traditional sandwich — bursting with spicy shredded chicken, creamy avocado, melted cheese, and crisp vegetables, all tucked into a toasted bolillo or telera roll. This dish combines the comfort of tacos with the heartiness of a sandwich, making it a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or game-day meals.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon oregano

  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • ½ cup tomato sauce

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

  • 4 bolillo or telera rolls (or small baguettes)

  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced

  • 1 cup shredded lettuce

  • 1 tomato, sliced

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso Oaxaca)

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise

  • ¼ cup sour cream

  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings

  • Makes 4 sandwiches

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken:

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Remove and let cool slightly before shredding with two forks.

  2. Prepare the Filling:

    In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir in tomato sauce and lime juice, then return the shredded chicken to the pan. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.

  3. Prepare the Spread:

    In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and sour cream together. Spread this mixture on both sides of each roll.

  4. Assemble the Tortas:

    Layer the bottom half of the roll with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and avocado. Spoon the warm chicken mixture over the veggies, top with cheese, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

  5. Toast and Serve:

    Press the sandwich together and toast it in a pan or sandwich press until the bread is golden and the cheese melts slightly. Serve warm.

Tips

  • For extra crunch, add pickled jalapeños or sliced red onions.

  • Use leftover roasted or grilled chicken to make this even faster.

  • If you prefer, swap the chicken for shredded pork or beef.

Nutrition (per sandwich, approximate)

  • Calories: 520

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 21g

  • Carbohydrates: 42g

  • Fiber: 4g

Chicken Taco Tortas deliver bold flavor in every bite — juicy spiced chicken, creamy toppings, and toasted bread make this a satisfying Mexican-inspired meal that’s easy to love.