A Seasoned Camper’s Favorite: Grilled Chicken Tacos over a Campfire in a Cast Iron Pan

Introduction:

Welcome, fellow newbie campers, to the wonderful world of outdoor cooking! As a seasoned camper, I understand the thrill of preparing delicious meals amidst nature’s beauty. Today, I’ll be sharing with you my all-time favorite recipe: Grilled Chicken Tacos cooked over a campfire in a trusty cast iron pan. These tacos are bursting with flavors and are incredibly satisfying after a long day of hiking and exploring. Let’s dive in!

Serving Size: This recipe serves 4 hungry campers.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Total Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

– 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 8 small flour tortillas

– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced onions, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, hot sauce, lime wedges

Ingredient Alternatives:

– Instead of chicken breasts, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added juiciness and flavor.

– If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken:

– Slice the chicken breasts into thin, even strips.

– In a ziplock bag or a bowl, combine the chicken strips, olive oil, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.

– Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or you can even marinate it overnight before your camping trip to enhance the flavors.

2. Setting up the Campfire:

– Find a safe and designated area to set up your campfire.

– Arrange the firewood in a pyramid shape and light the fire.

– Allow the fire to burn until you have a good bed of hot coals, which will provide even heat for cooking.

3. Cooking the Chicken:

– Place a well-seasoned cast iron pan over the hot coals of the campfire.

– Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken strips and spread them out in an even layer.

– Cook the chicken for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping the strips occasionally, until they are cooked through and slightly charred.

– Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

4. Assembling the Tacos:

– While the chicken is cooking, warm the flour tortillas on the edge of the cast iron pan or directly over the campfire for a few seconds on each side until they are pliable.

– Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a plate.

– Set up a taco station with the warmed tortillas, cooked chicken, and a variety of optional toppings.

– Let each camper create their own customized grilled chicken taco by adding their desired toppings.

5. Side Dish Ideas:

– Mexican Rice: Prepare instant or pre-cooked Mexican rice as a flavorful side dish.

– Grilled Corn on the Cob: Wrap shucked corn in foil and cook it directly in the campfire’s hot coals until tender and slightly charred.

– Black Bean Salad: Combine canned black beans, diced bell peppers, corn kernels, chopped red onions, and a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing and protein-packed side dish.

Spice Ideas:

– If you enjoy spicy flavors, you can add additional spices to the taco seasoning, such as cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chipotle powder, to give your chicken a kick.

– Alternatively, you can provide a selection of hot sauces at the taco station to allow each camper to adjust the spice level to their liking.

Pros and Cons of the Recipe:

Pros:

– Easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for camping.

– The cast iron pan helps achieve a delicious smoky flavor and even cooking.

– Versatile: You can customize the toppings to suit individual preferences.

– The recipe can be adapted for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian options.

– Grilled chicken tacos are a crowd-pleaser, loved by both kids and adults alike.

Cons:

– Requires access to a campfire or grill, which may not always be available in certain camping locations.

– Cooking times may vary depending on the heat of the campfire, so keep an eye on the chicken to prevent overcooking or undercooking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dear newbie campers, I hope this recipe for Grilled Chicken Tacos over a campfire in a cast iron pan becomes a delightful addition to your camping adventures. Embrace the joy of outdoor cooking, the sizzle of the cast iron pan, and the mouthwatering aromas that will have your fellow campers eagerly gathering around the campfire. Remember, camping is not just about exploring nature; it’s also about creating memories and sharing delicious meals with loved ones. So grab your cast iron pan, gather around the fire, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more. Happy camping and happy cooking!

Note: Don’t forget to prioritize safety when using fire and always follow local regulations and guidelines for campfire cooking.

Here are some camping related links that might be helpful.

Free Campsite Map	https://freecampsites.net/
Free Campsite	https://www.campendium.com/
Recreation	https://www.recreation.gov/
Campground Passes for Seniors	https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm