Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos. These delicious tacos are made from chicken thighs that soak in a vibrant marinade, resulting in tender and flavorful meat grilled to perfection. Perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, these street tacos bring together fresh ingredients and robust flavors that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines lime juice, garlic, and spices for an irresistible taste that elevates every bite.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, onions, or fresh cilantro to personalize each taco.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these tacos are always a hit.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, these tacos can fit into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon size resealable bag
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good quality grill ensures even cooking and adds that delicious charred flavor to the chicken.
• Gallon size resealable bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken without any mess; it keeps all the flavors locked in.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the grilled chicken into cubes quick and easy.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the marinade ingredients before adding them to the chicken.

Ingredients

For this amazing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos recipe, you’ll need:

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 Assembling Tacos

• 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: Marinate the Chicken

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 chicken in the bag then seal while releasing any trapped air. Rub the marinade over the chicken thoroughly.
4. Transfer to refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 1 hour up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat until it reaches between 425°F – 450°F.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade.
2. Grill until cooked through, turning once halfway through grilling—about 5 – 6 minutes per side (the thickest part should reach an internal temperature of 165°F).
3. Once done, transfer grilled chicken to a plate and cover with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Tacos

1. Dice grilled chicken into cubes.
2. Assemble by sprinkling diced chicken over one or two tortillas per taco.
3. Top with avocado slices, chopped onions, and additional cilantro as desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for spritzing each taco with fresh lime juice. Drizzle with hot sauce if you like an extra kick!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Avocado slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the flavors.
• Chopped cilantro – Fresh cilantro enhances the overall freshness of the tacos.
• Diced onions – Sweet or red onions provide a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de gallo – This fresh tomato salsa adds a burst of flavor with every bite.
• Hot sauce – A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up!
• Crema – A dollop of sour cream or a crema sauce adds a cool contrast.

Serving Style

• Mini corn tortillas – Use warm mini tortillas for an authentic street taco experience.
• Lime wedges – Serve with lime wedges for a zesty spritz just before eating.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right:

• Marinate long enough – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, but up to 6 hours for maximum flavor.
• Preheat the grill properly – Ensure your grill reaches 425-450 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the chicken for perfect searing.
• Avoid overcrowding the grill – Grill in batches if necessary, as crowding can lower the temperature and prevent even cooking.
• Let the chicken rest – Allow grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking; this helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds a hearty touch.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans compliment tacos beautifully and offer extra protein.
3. Corn Salad – A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing brightens up the meal.
4. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly and adds richness.
5. Chips and Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an excellent appetizer.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred seasonal veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold Marinade Timing: Marinating the chicken for too short a time can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 1 hour, but no more than 6 hours for optimal taste.
• Bold Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (425-450°F) for perfect char and doneness.
• Bold Skipping Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before dicing.
• Bold Overpacking Tacos: Stuffing tacos too full can make them hard to eat and cause spills. Use a moderate amount of filling for easier handling and enjoyment.
• Bold Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old toppings can ruin the flavor. Always use fresh cilantro, avocado, and onions for vibrant taste and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate; heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add tacos, and warm for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are flavorful mini tacos filled with marinated grilled chicken, fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro, served in soft corn tortillas.

How do I make my Grilled Chicken Street Tacos spicier?

You can add more ancho chili powder or include sliced jalapeños as toppings for an extra kick of heat.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

These tacos pair well with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget lime wedges!

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos offer a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress your guests. They are versatile and can be customized with various toppings or spice levels. Try this recipe today and discover how easy it is to create delicious street-style tacos at home!