When you’ve got leftover rotisserie chicken hanging out in the fridge, there’s no better move than turning it into tacos—especially ones this flavorful. These rotisserie chicken tacos are bursting with citrusy heat, creamy toppings, and a little crunch in every bite. Whether you're using a store-bought Costco rotisserie chicken or homemade, this dish is one of those meals with rotisserie chicken that's easy, fast, and seriously satisfying. It’s the kind of dinner that tastes like a treat but takes hardly any time to throw together.
Zesty Rotisserie Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Skillet or sauté pan To warm and season the shredded chicken. A nonstick pan works well, but a cast iron skillet gives a nice texture to the chicken.
Mixing bowl For whipping up the lime crema.
Tongs or spatula For flipping tortillas and stirring chicken.
Optional A microwave or stovetop to warm tortillas—if you have a tortilla warmer, even better!
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken leftover rotisserie chicken works great here
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 avocado sliced
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar optional
For the lime crema
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt to taste
Season the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken and season with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add lime juice and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and fragrant.
Make the Lime Crema
While the chicken warms, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime zest and juice, honey, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.
Warm the Tortillas
Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or microwave them for 20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel to keep them soft.
Assemble the Tacos
Spoon seasoned chicken into tortillas. Top with shredded cabbage, cilantro, diced red onion, and avocado slices. Drizzle with lime crema and sprinkle queso fresco or cheddar if you like.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side and maybe a cold drink in hand.
Pairings
These tacos are amazing with a side of Mexican street corn (esquites), black beans, or a simple cilantro-lime rice. For drinks, try a light beer, a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc, or a tangy agua fresca. Want to go full comfort mode? A side of chips and guac never fails.
FAQs
1. Can I use any part of the chicken?
Yes! Thigh meat is juicier and richer, but rotisserie chicken breast also works perfectly, especially when it’s mixed with lime and spices. If you're working through rotisserie chicken recipes easy and quick, you can even mix light and dark meat for the best of both.
2. What if I don’t have cabbage?
Lettuce, arugula, or thin-sliced bell peppers work as fresh toppings too.
3. Can this be made ahead?
Absolutely—just prep the seasoned chicken and crema in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble tacos fresh for the best texture.
4. How healthy is this?
It depends on your toppings, but this can easily be one of your go-to rotisserie chicken recipes healthy style by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, loading up on veggies, and using whole grain tortillas.
5. What are some other ideas for leftover rotisserie chicken?
Besides tacos, think chicken casserole dinners, enchiladas, or even wraps and salads. These tacos are just the beginning of all the rotisserie chicken recipes waiting in your kitchen.
