Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there, Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. With chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice and spices, then grilled to perfection, these tacos are not only bursting with flavor but are also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with a bright and savory taste that makes each bite memorable.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious tacos ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or meal prep; these tacos suit any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy customizing their own tacos with fresh toppings.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, these tacos offer a satisfying meal without the guilt.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, gather the essential tools and equipment to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling tongs
• Large mixing bowl
• Gallon-sized resealable bag
• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling tongs: Ideal for flipping chicken without losing any delicious juices.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining marinade ingredients evenly.
• Gallon-sized resealable bag: Best for marinating the chicken while keeping things mess-free.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping veggies and slicing chicken efficiently.

Ingredients

To create mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 1/2 lbs trimmed boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp ancho chili powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Assembly

• 12 mini corn taco shells, warmed (double up if desired)
• 1 large avocado, cored and sliced
• 1 small red or yellow onion, chopped
• 3 Tbsp chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

How to Make Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add chicken to a gallon-size resealable bag. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin chili powder, cilantro, 1 tsp salt, and 3/4 tsp pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade mixture over the chicken in the bag. Seal the bag while releasing any trapped air. Rub the marinade over the chicken thoroughly. Transfer it to the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until it reaches about 425 – 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade. Grill until cooked through—turning once halfway—about 5-6 minutes per side. The thickest center should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit while achieving a slight char.

Step 5: Rest Before Dicing

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and cover it with foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before dicing into cubes.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Sprinkle diced grilled chicken over one or two tortillas per taco. Top with an avocado slice, diced onions, and cilantro.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious tacos warm! Don’t forget to spritz each one with fresh lime juice and drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delightful treat that can be customized in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and enhances the flavor.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, sliced jalapeños are a great addition.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes offer sweetness and juiciness to balance the spices.

Flavorful Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
• Mango Salsa: This sweet and tangy salsa pairs well with the savory chicken, adding a tropical twist.
• Spicy Chipotle Salsa: Adds smokiness and heat for those who love bold flavors.

Creamy Enhancements

• Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that brings richness and creaminess to each bite.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt adds a cooling effect to balance the spices.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos turn out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate your chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 2-3 hours if possible.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot enough before cooking. This helps achieve a nice char on your chicken.
• Use Bone-In Thighs: For even juicier meat, consider using bone-in thighs instead of boneless ones.
• Rest the Meat: Always let your grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for added flavor and flexibility when filling them.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in your marinade. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give extra depth.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can elevate the meal even further. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a hearty base that complements tacos wonderfully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and make for a satisfying side that pairs nicely with tacos.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder offers sweet and savory flavors.
4. Black Bean Salad: A fresh salad made with black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds brightness and nutrition.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an excellent snack while enjoying your tacos.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw drizzled with lime dressing adds freshness to balance out the rich tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect your dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can result in bland tacos. Aim for at least one hour to let the flavors infuse.

• Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken: Opting for chicken breasts instead of thighs can lead to dry tacos. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, making them the better choice.

• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature prevents that beautiful char from developing. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (425-450 degrees) for best results.

• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.

• Not Resting the Chicken: Cutting into grilled chicken immediately loses juices, making it dry. Let your chicken rest covered for about 5 minutes before dicing it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Chicken Street Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap each taco individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for about 30 seconds or until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different proteins for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or even shrimp based on your preference!

What toppings go well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Common toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Customize it as you like!

How spicy are these Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

The spice level is mild due to the ancho chili powder. Adjust by adding more chili powder or using jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to grill them fresh before serving.

What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh corn salad for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings or swap proteins according to your taste preferences. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner—give it a try!

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Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 tacos 1x

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Description

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a flavorful treat that brings the joy of street food right to your kitchen. Marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices, tender chicken thighs are grilled to perfection and served in warm mini corn tortillas. These tacos are not only quick and easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. With customizable toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, and diced onions, everyone can create their ideal taco. Plus, they’re packed with protein and fresh ingredients, making them a delicious and guilt-free choice.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp ancho chili powder
• 12 mini corn taco shells
• Fresh toppings (avocado, onion, cilantro)

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Instructions

1. In a large resealable bag, combine chicken with lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Seal and marinate for at least one hour.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high (425-450°F).
3. Grill marinated chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before dicing.
5. Assemble tacos by placing diced chicken in warmed tortillas and adding desired toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 taco
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg