Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos! These tacos feature tender, marinated chicken thighs that are grilled to perfection. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how full of flavor they turn out. Perfect for gatherings or a weeknight dinner, these tacos will impress your guests and quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The marinade combines lime juice, garlic, and spices to create a vibrant taste that will leave you craving more.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you can have delicious tacos ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these tacos as an appetizer or main dish, making them great for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Guests rave about these tacos, ensuring they will be a hit at your next gathering.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables like avocado and cilantro elevates the dish, adding color and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare these tasty tacos.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon-size resealable bag
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect heat for charring the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to chop the chicken and vegetables precisely.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken on the grill without losing those flavorful juices.

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 Serving

• 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

1. Add chicken to a gallon-size resealable bag.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, cilantro, 1 tsp salt, and 3/4 tsp pepper.
3. Pour mixture over the chicken in the bag. Seal it while releasing trapped air. Rub marinade over the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Transfer the sealed bag to the refrigerator.
2. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill.
2. Grill until cooked through, about 5 – 6 minutes per side. The thickest part should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit with slight charring.

Step 5: Let It Rest

1. Transfer grilled chicken to a plate.
2. Cover with foil and let rest for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Dice grilled chicken into cubes.
2. Sprinkle diced chicken over one or two tortillas per taco.
3. Top with an avocado slice, chopped onions, and additional cilantro.

Step 7: Serve!

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for spritzing each taco. Optionally drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick! Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Taco Bar

• Set up a taco bar with all the fixings so guests can customize their own tacos. Offer toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and your favorite salsas.

Avocado Crema

• Blend ripe avocados with lime juice and a pinch of salt for a creamy topping. This adds richness and complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Pickled Onions

• Serve pickled red onions as a tangy contrast to the savory flavors of the grilled chicken. They add color and crunch to each bite.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Provide lime wedges on the side for spritzing over the tacos. The acidity brightens the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Hot Sauce Selection

• Offer a variety of hot sauces for those who enjoy some heat. This allows everyone to personalize their tacos according to their spice preference.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To achieve mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, follow these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for up to 6 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
• Preheat Grill Properly: Make sure your grill reaches medium-high heat (425-450°F) before adding the chicken; this ensures even cooking and nice char marks.
• Use Bone-In Thighs: For even more flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, making for juicier meat.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your taco shells on the grill or in a skillet just before serving; this makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing sides with your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can turn this meal into a feast. Here are some great side dishes to complement your tacos.

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful blend of rice cooked with tomatoes, spices, and vegetables. It’s an excellent base that pairs well with tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and a satisfying texture that balances out the tacos.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh salad made with corn, bell peppers, lime juice, and cilantro adds sweetness and crunch.
4. Guacamole: Classic avocado dip mixed with onions, cilantro, lime juice, and spices makes for a delicious addition alongside tacos.
5. Chips and Salsa: Offer crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa or pico de gallo as an appetizer or snack.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn make a colorful side that complements grilled flavors.
7. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro creates a protein-rich side dish full of flavor.
8. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette adds brightness and texture that contrasts nicely with the rich tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind.

• Bold marinade mistake: Skipping the marinating step can lead to bland chicken. Always allow at least an hour for the flavors to absorb.
• Bold grill temperature error: Cooking on a grill that is not hot enough results in undercooked chicken. Ensure your grill reaches 425-450 degrees before placing the chicken on it.
• Bold cutting technique oversight: Not letting the grilled chicken rest can cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling for maximum juiciness.
• Bold taco assembly issue: Overloading your tacos can make them difficult to eat. Aim for a balanced filling of chicken, avocado, and toppings for the best experience.
• Bold storage blunder: Failing to store leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken street tacos in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet 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 in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat and add the tacos. Heat each side for about 1-2 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, here’s what you might want to know.

Can I use other meats for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef or turkey if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat used.

How do I make my own taco seasoning?

To make homemade taco seasoning, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to taste. This will give your grilled chicken extra flavor.

What toppings go well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

You can add toppings like cheese, salsa, fresh lime juice, or diced tomatoes. Customize according to your preferences!

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and toppings separately and assemble when ready to serve for maximum freshness.

How do I keep taco shells from getting soggy?

Warm taco shells just before serving and avoid overfilling them with wet ingredients like salsa or guacamole until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings or sides based on your preferences. Whether hosting guests or enjoying a family meal, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at the table!

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Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are the perfect combination of flavor, ease, and versatility. Tender, marinated chicken thighs are grilled to perfection and nestled in warm corn taco shells, making these tacos an ideal choice for any gathering or a quick weeknight dinner. The marinade, bursting with fresh lime juice, garlic, and spices, elevates the chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness. With just a handful of fresh toppings like sliced avocado and chopped cilantro, you’ll find these tasty bites are sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. In a gallon-size resealable bag, combine chicken with lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
2. Seal the bag while removing excess air and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (425-450°F).
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked (165°F). Let it rest for about 5 minutes.
5. Dice the grilled chicken and assemble tacos with toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (approx. 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 100mg