Pin It A vibrant, flavor-packed twist on classic tacos—juicy ground chicken seasoned with ranch and dill pickle, topped with crunchy cabbage, tangy pickles, and a crispy cheese lace for irresistible texture. These Dill Pickle Ranch Smash Chicken Tacos bring a bold American flair to your dinner table in just 30 minutes.
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This recipe transforms simple ingredients like ground chicken and cottage cheese into a gourmet-style taco. The high-protein ranch cottage cheese sauce adds a creamy element that balances the zing of the pickles, while the gluten-free tortillas ensure this dish is accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
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- Chicken Filling:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Tacos & Toppings:
- 8 small gluten-free tortillas
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Jack cheese (for cheese lace)
- ½ cup chopped dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons pickle brine
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- Ranch Cottage Cheese Sauce:
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Step 2
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken mixture, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 3
- In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese, ranch seasoning, and lemon juice until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Step 4
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame until pliable. Keep covered to stay warm.
- Step 5
- For the crispy cheese lace: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded cheese in a circle slightly larger than a tortilla. Let melt and cook until golden and lacey, about 2 minutes. Carefully place a tortilla on top, press gently, and cook for 30 seconds. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds, then transfer to a plate cheese-side up. Repeat with remaining tortillas and cheese.
- Step 6
- To assemble, top each cheese-crusted tortilla with a generous spoonful of chicken, a handful of shredded cabbage, chopped dill pickles, and a drizzle of pickle brine.
- Step 7
- Finish with a dollop of ranch cottage cheese sauce. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra crunch, toss the cabbage with a splash of pickle brine before assembling the tacos. Using a non-stick skillet is essential for achieving the perfect golden, lacey cheese crust without it sticking to the pan.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute cheddar or pepper Jack for the cheese lace if you prefer a sharper or spicier flavor. You can also add sliced jalapeños, red onion, or fresh herbs like cilantro for extra flavor and a colorful presentation.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these tacos immediately while the cheese lace is crispy and the chicken is warm. They pair beautifully with a side of extra pickles or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
Pin It With 350 calories and 25g of protein per taco, this meal is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Enjoy the perfect balance of dairy, protein, and tang in every bite of these unique chicken tacos.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for the crispy lace?
Mozzarella or Jack cheese melts well to create a crispy, lace-like texture perfect for layering on the tortillas.
- → Can I use fresh dill instead of dill pickles?
Fresh dill offers a bright flavor but lacks the tanginess and crunch of pickles, which are essential to the dish's distinctive taste and texture.
- → How do I make the ranch cottage cheese sauce smooth?
Blend cottage cheese with ranch seasoning and lemon juice until completely smooth using a blender or food processor for a creamy finish.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the tortillas?
Yes, small gluten-free tortillas work perfectly to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the cabbage topping?
Toss the shredded cabbage with a splash of pickle brine before assembling to enhance its flavor and crispness.
