Follow these simple steps to taco perfection:

1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, usually about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Cook the Chicken: If using chicken chunks, add them to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. If using whole chicken breasts or thighs, add them to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add Seasoning and Liquid: Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the chicken. Pour in the water or chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – that’s where a lot of flavor lives!
4. Simmer the Chicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook until the chicken is cooked through and tender. This will take about 15-20 minutes for chunks or 20-25 minutes for whole pieces, depending on their thickness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the skillet and place them on a clean cutting board or in a large bowl. Leave the sauce simmering gently in the skillet. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should shred easily if cooked properly.
6. Combine Filling Ingredients: Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the rinsed and drained black beans or pinto beans. Stir everything together gently to combine. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more water or broth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (you might want more salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili powder depending on your taco seasoning).
7. Warm the Tortillas: While the filling simmers, warm your tortillas. You can do this a few ways:
   • Microwave: Wrap a stack of tortillas in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds until warm and pliable.
   • Skillet: Warm tortillas one by one in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-30 seconds per side until soft and slightly puffed.
   • Oven: Wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
   • Gas Stove (for corn tortillas): Carefully warm directly over a low flame for a few seconds per side until lightly charred and flexible (use tongs!).
8. Assemble the Tacos: Lay out the warm tortillas. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and bean filling into the center of each tortilla.
9. Add Toppings and Serve: Set out bowls of your desired toppings and let everyone customize their own tacos. Serve immediately and enjoy!