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Golden-brown chicken smash tacos with crispy cheese lace and fresh dill on a platter.
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Dill Pickle Ranch Smash Chicken Tacos with Crispy Cheese Lace

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 485kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning powder
  • 1/4 cup finely diced dill pickles
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle brine
  • 8 small flour or corn street-taco tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ranch seasoning powder, diced pickles, and pickle brine until well incorporated.
  • Form the chicken mixture into 8 equal-sized balls, approximately 2 ounces each.
  • Preheat a cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat and lightly grease with oil or cooking spray.
  • Place a chicken ball on the hot griddle and immediately top with a tortilla.
  • Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash the tortilla down firmly until the chicken layer is very thin and reaches the edges of the tortilla.
  • Cook for 3 to 4 minutes without moving, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Flip the taco and toast the tortilla side for 30 seconds, then remove from the pan.
  • Clear any debris from the griddle and sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese in a circle slightly larger than the taco.
  • Once the cheese begins to bubble and melt, place the taco chicken-side down onto the melting cheese.
  • Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese forms a golden-brown, crispy lace around the edges. Use a spatula to lift the taco and the attached cheese lace from the pan.
  • Repeat for the remaining tacos and serve topped with ranch dressing, sliced pickles, and fresh dill.