Rotisserie Chicken Tacos are not only quick but also incredibly tasty. This type of chicken is typically juicier and more tender than roasted or grilled, making it a perfect base for tacos.
I'm excited to share how I make my low carb rotisserie chicken tacos served on homemade crispy cheese taco shells. The blend of spices and flavors will have you hooked. Also, they are super low carb, skipping the traditional corn tortillas and other carb-loaded ingredients. Let’s dive in and see how it all comes together.
This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto and Gluten Free
Table of Contents
8 Reasons To Love This Recipe
These rotisserie chicken tacos are a game-changer for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Here’s why they’ll quickly become a favorite:
- So easy to make by using rotisserie chicken!
- Super crispy chicken tacos that are absolutely low carb!
- Completely keto-friendly meal too!
- Bright, bold flavors that keep people coming back for more!
- Taco Tuesday is loved by everyone!
- Great taco idea for Cinco de Mayo!
- Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering!
- Perfect way to reuse leftover chicken!
Are Rotisserie Chicken Tacos Low Carb?
Yes, rotisserie chicken tacos can be made low carb. This recipe has only 3 g net carbs per serving, including tons of your favorite taco toppings. On taco night, I enjoy 3-4 of these and feel completely satisfied, without any processed or high carb ingredients.
As far as rotisserie chicken is concerned, it is completely low carb. Check out my article "Is Rotisserie Chicken Keto?" to know more about the nutritional values and carb content.
How To Season Rotisserie Chicken For Tacos?
Seasoning rotisserie chicken for tacos is a breeze, and it adds incredible flavor to your meal. Here’s how I do it:
- Start by shredding your rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you don't know how to do it, an easy guide on "How to Shred Rotisserie Chicken" will be coming next week.
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat until it shimmers.
- Toss the shredded chicken mixture into the skillet.
- Sprinkle the chicken with my dry rub recipe for an amazing flavor boost.
- Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning and heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and get ready to assemble your delicious tacos
Rotisserie Chicken Tacos Ingredient List
Below is the list of ingredients you'll need to make chicken tacos with rotisserie chicken:
For the rotisserie chicken:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons banana peppers, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 lime, cut into 8 segments
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup pickled red onions
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Tacos:
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up with these tasty ingredient substitutions. Here are some great alternatives that work just as well in this rotisserie chicken tacos recipe:
- Rotisserie chicken: You can use braised chicken thighs, pulled pork, or even ground beef as a substitute for this recipe. Each of these substitutes works well with the seasoning blend suggested.
- Olive oil: Use avocado oil, coconut oil, ghee, or clarified butter.
- Chili powder: Use ground chipotle for some smoky heat or regular paprika for a milder flavor.
- Ground cumin: For a bit more zing, you can use ground coriander.
- Garlic powder: Go ahead and use granulated garlic.
- Onion powder: You can use ½ teaspoon of dried onion flakes or the same amount of granulated onion.
- Smoked paprika: Substitute Hot Hungarian paprika (this is very spicy!) for more kick, or regular paprika to keep the heat level mild.
Additional Ingredients
Take your rotisserie chicken recipes to the next level with these delicious additions. Customize to your heart’s content with these tasty pairings:
- Avocado: Adding sliced or diced avocado for a pop of flavor to these yummy tacos.
- Guacamole: Why not make some of my delicious homemade guacamole and toss a couple tablespoons on each taco for good measure?
- Salsa: Some homemade salsa or Pico de Gallo goes a really long way.
- Sautéed onions: My family loves to add my sautéed onions to tacos any day of the week.
- Sautéed peppers: With sautéed peppers and onions, it’s more like a chicken fajita taco experience… I just made that up, but it sounds good to me!
- Lime juice: Squeezing fresh lime juice before serving makes taco recipes super delicious and adds lots of flavor.
Note: These ingredients are not part of the original recipe- use them to enhance or customize the recipe to your liking.
Cooking Tools Required
Below is the list of cooking tools you need to make tacos with rotisserie chicken:
- Mixing bowl
- Handheld blender (for shredding the chicken) or 2 forks
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Sautee pan
How To Make Rotisserie Chicken Tacos: Complete Cooking Guide
This recipe is a breeze to make, thanks to rotisserie chicken—cooking time is kept to a minimum, under 5 minutes!
Cooking Method
- Sautee
Preparation Steps
- Prepare all the toppings that you would like for your rotisserie chicken tacos.
- Make the recipe for Cheese Taco Shells or use a store-bought keto friendly taco shell or a corn taco shell if you’re not following the low carb diet.
Cooking Steps
- In a medium sized skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers.
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet, along with the remaining spices.
- Mix together with either a silicone spatula or silicone covered tongs until the chicken is heated through (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from the heat and set aside.
Assembly Steps
- I use a taco holder (it holds 3 tacos) to assemble the tacos at my house. Place three taco shells of your choice in the holder (or make each taco individually if you don’t have a holder) and add approximately ¼ cup of the seasoned rotisserie chicken.
- Add your favorite toppings that you have prepared and give a nice squeeze of lime after everything has been assembled.
- Chow down on the rotisserie chicken tacos immediately, and then go back for seconds!
Step 1: Add shredded rotisserie chicken and spices to a heated pan.
Step 2: Stir the chicken and spices in the pan.
Step 3: Continue cooking until the chicken is browned and the spices are well blended.
Step 4: Combine sour cream with chili powder in a small bowl.
Step 5: Stir the seasoned sour cream until smooth and well mixed.
Step 6: Fill cheese taco shells with the cooked chicken.
Step 7: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken-filled tacos.
Step 8: Add shredded romaine lettuce to the tacos.
Step 9: Top the tacos with diced tomatoes to finish.
💡 My Pro Tip
Here’s my tip for turning leftover rotisserie chicken into shredded chicken (or you can read the full post about how to shred a rotisserie chicken). When you have extra rotisserie chicken, it's best to remove the meat from the bone while it is still warm. This makes the entire process much easier. I also remove the skin because it does not shred well and tends to have an odd texture when shredded.
Once the chicken is off the bone, add it to a large, high-sided mixing bowl. Take out an electric hand mixer and place it on the chicken. Turn the mixer on and set the speed to 3-4. Mix until the chicken starts to shred. Turn the speed up to 5-6 and continue to mix for another 30 seconds or until it is completely shredded.
When it has reached the desired consistency, let it cool to room temperature, place it in an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week until it is ready to be used.
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Shred your rotisserie chicken ahead of time.
- Season your chicken right away: After shredding your rotisserie chicken, don't let it cool and add the seasonings immediately and mix well. There's no need to cook the seasoning further. It’s a real time saver.
- Prepare your cheese taco shells in advance.
What To Serve With Rotisserie Chicken Tacos?
Pairing these rotisserie chicken tacos with the right sides and drinks makes for an unforgettable meal. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments:
- Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole adds a rich texture that complements the seasoned chicken perfectly. I love to spoon a generous dollop on top of each taco for an extra burst of flavor.
- Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade is the perfect counterbalance to the savory tacos. The citrusy zing helps cleanse the palate and keeps the meal light and enjoyable.
- Limeade: Similar to lemonade but with a slightly different twist, limeade offers a tart and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in the chicken. It’s my go-to drink for taco night.
- Avocado Crema: This smooth and creamy sauce adds a delightful richness to the tacos. Drizzle it over the top for an added layer of deliciousness that ties all the flavors together.
- Southwestern Salad: A vibrant and delightful meal and a great side dish. The fresh vegetables, black beans, and zesty dressing are a wonderful complement to the tacos, adding variety and a burst of color to your plate.
What To Make With Rotisserie Chicken?
Rotisserie chicken is my secret weapon for quick and delicious meals, and I often use it as a chicken taco filling with some homemade sauces. Here are a few leftover rotisserie chicken recipes that I love making:
- Rotisserie Chicken Soup: This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The plain rotisserie chicken adds depth to the chicken broth, making it both hearty and satisfying - an effortless family dinner idea!
- Rotisserie Chicken Salad: With fresh and plenty of flavors, this salad is a quick and easy lunch option. I love tossing the shredded chicken leftovers with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole: Spicy, creamy, and loaded with shredded cheese—this casserole is a perfect dinner recipe. The pre-cooked rotisserie chicken absorbs the bold flavors, making every bite irresistible.
- Shredded Chicken Paprikash: This Hungarian-inspired dish is rich and flavorful. The shredded chicken soaks up the smoky paprika sauce, creating a comforting and delicious meal.
Storage, Freezing, And Reheating Instructions
Storage Tips
Once you have your shredded rotisserie chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Toppings that last several days in the refrigerator in individual airtight containers:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Toppings that last about a week in their own individual airtight containers:
- Pickled red onions
- Sliced banana peppers
- Sour cream
Reheating Tips
Reheat the rotisserie chicken in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave the chicken on medium heat for a couple of minutes until heated through.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the seasoned rotisserie chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. After that, it tends to become freezer burned, so be sure to mark the date on the package. When ready to use, place it in the refrigerator overnight to defrost. Heat according to the instructions above. Remember that toppings don't freeze.
Recipe Conclusion
When I started my low carb journey, I thought I'd have to say goodbye to many of my favorite foods. Back in 2017, this was often true, but today, there are so many creative ways to enjoy these foods again.
These chicken tacos from rotisserie chicken are a perfect example. I never thought I could have tacos on a low carb diet, but making taco shells out of cheddar cheese and filling them with seasoned shredded chicken and my favorite toppings has been a game-changer. It's a treat that brings a smile to my face every time.
For your next Taco Tuesday, give this recipe a try. If you do, I'd love to see your creations—share your pictures on Instagram or leave a comment below!
Other Mexican Recipes To Try
FAQs
Yes. You can remove the chicken from the bones of a rotisserie chicken, add it to a bowl and either shred it with a hand mixer or by using two forks. It is juicy and delicious.
First, add the cooked chicken meat to a bowl. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to shred the chicken quickly. Otherwise, you can place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet and shred the chicken with two forks.
Rotisserie Chicken Tacos
Ingredients
For the rotisserie chicken:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons banana peppers chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 lime cut into 8 segments
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup pickled red onions link
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Tacos:
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Prepare all the toppings that you would like for your rotisserie chicken tacos.
- Make the recipe for Cheese Taco Shells or use a store-bought keto friendly taco shell or a corn taco shell if you’re not following the low carb diet.
Cooking Steps
- In a medium sized skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers.
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet, along with the remaining spices.
- Mix together with either a silicone spatula or silicone covered tongs until the chicken is heated through (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from the heat and set aside.
Assembly Steps
- I use a taco holder (it holds 3 tacos) to assemble the tacos at my house. Place three taco shells of your choice in the holder (or make each taco individually if you don’t have a holder) and add approximately ¼ cup of the seasoned rotisserie chicken.
- Add your favorite toppings that you have prepared and give a nice squeeze of lime after everything has been assembled.
- Chow down on the rotisserie chicken tacos immediately, and then go back for seconds!
Notes
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
Recent Low Carb Recipes:
Ketogenic Christmas Cookies
My Ketogenic Christmas Cookies are the perfect way to stay on track this holiday season. These low-carb, sugar-free cookies combine a soft, buttery base with a festive peppermint glaze. Simple to make and fun to decorate, they’ll be the star of your holiday table!
Creamy Sugar Free Eggnog (Low Carb & Keto)
Think eggnog is off-limits because you're avoiding sugar? My Sugar-Free Eggnog recipe is here to prove you wrong! With all the creamy richness of the classic, this low-carb, keto-friendly version is ready in minutes and is perfect with or without a splash of rum.
Decadent Keto Hot Chocolate ☕
Craving a warm cup of decadence? My keto hot chocolate is rich, thick, and unbelievably satisfying. Perfect for chilly days, it’s a European-style chocolatey delight that’s sugar-free and low-carb.
Is it low carb? Learn more about it:
Understanding Carbs In Guacamole: Low Carb or Keto?
Delve into the world of guacamole and its carb content—essential knowledge for low carb and keto enthusiasts. Avocado's creamy texture
What is Low Carb Diet? Carb Confusion Conquered!
Ever wondered what a Low Carb Diet really entails? I’ve broken down the basics to help you understand how reducing
Low Carb Diet for Weight Loss: Does It Actually Work?
Many studies suggest that a low carb diet can indeed be effective for weight loss. By restricting carbohydrates, the body
