Dill Pickle Ranch Smash Chicken Tacos with Crispy Cheese Lace Recipe | Bold & Crunchy Flavor
Make dill pickle ranch smash chicken tacos with crispy cheese lace for a bold, crunchy twist. Juicy chicken, tangy ranch, and golden cheese shells create the ultimate taco night recipe.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or griddle
- Nonstick skillet (for cheese lace)
- Spatula
- Cutting board & knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- ½ cup dill pickle juice
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (for cheese lace)
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- ½ cup dill pickles, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for garnish
- Optional: jalapeños, avocado, hot sauce
Instructions
- Prep chicken: Marinate chicken in pickle juice, ranch seasoning, garlic, and dill for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Smash chicken: Heat skillet over medium-high. Place chicken pieces down and press firmly with a spatula to “smash.” Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Slice if needed.
- Cheese lace: In a nonstick skillet, sprinkle shredded cheese into small rounds. Cook until melted, bubbly, and golden. Remove carefully and let cool slightly.
- Assemble tacos: Warm tortillas. Layer smashed chicken, cheese lace, pickles, onion, and cilantro. Finish with lime juice and optional extras.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately while warm and crisp.
Notes
- Make-ahead: Marinate chicken in advance; cook just before serving.
- Variations: Try lettuce wraps for low-carb, mini tortillas for party sliders, or tofu for vegetarian.
- Tip: Don’t over-marinate chicken in pickle juice—it can become too salty.