Smashed Chicken Parm Tacos with Crunch
This recipe was a huge hit with the family tonight! It’s a fun, handheld twist on the classic chicken parm – crunchy, cheesy, and saucy, all wrapped in carb balance tortillas for a lighter, high-protein dinner that feels just like comfort food without the guilt. These smashed chicken parm tacos hit the spot!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- 1 cup marinara sauce (warmed)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Carb balance tortillas (flour or corn)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra grated parmesan for topping
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, parmesan, panko, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Heat your Blackstone or skillet to medium-high heat, lightly oil the cooking surface.
- Form small balls (about 2 oz each), place them on the hot surface, and smash flat with a spatula.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy on the edges. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Spoon warmed marinara sauce onto each patty, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and cover briefly to melt.
- Place each cooked patty inside a warmed carb balance tortilla.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of extra parmesan.
Sides to Serve With:
Zucchini Fries:
- Cut zucchini into fry sticks.
- Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan.
- Bake or air fry at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Cold Italian Three-Bean Salad:
- 1 can each of cannellini beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans (rinsed and drained).
- Dice red onion, bell pepper, and chop parsley.
- Dress with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano.
- Toss and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Macros (per serving):
- Smashed Chicken Parm Taco: 430 cal | 35g protein | 22g fat | 25g carbs | 6g fiber
- Zucchini Fries: 110 cal | 3g protein | 7g fat | 9g carbs | 2g fiber
- Italian Three-Bean Salad: 220 cal | 10g protein | 4g fat | 36g carbs | 10g fiber
Full Meal Total (1 serving of each):
- Calories: 760
- Protein: 48g
- Fat: 33g
- Carbs: 70g
- Fiber: 18g
These tacos are packed with protein, fiber, and flavor – perfect for a family dinner or a fun weekend meal. Easy to make, super satisfying, and a definite crowd-pleaser!