Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the most irresistible taco recipes is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to lively gatherings with friends. These tacos feature tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of flavors and grilled to juicy perfection. With every bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that keeps you coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: The marinade of lime juice, garlic, and spices infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors that will excite your taste buds.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings such as salsa, cheese, or extra veggies to make these tacos uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon size resealable bag
• Whisk
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill allows you to achieve those perfect charred marks while enhancing the flavor of your chicken with smoky goodness.
• Gallon size resealable bag: This is perfect for marinating chicken without any mess. It ensures even coverage of the marinade on the meat.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine your marinade ingredients seamlessly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

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 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

Add chicken to a gallon size resealable bag. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, ancho chili powder, cilantro, 1 tsp salt, and 3/4 tsp pepper. Pour this mixture over chicken in the bag then seal it while releasing any trapped air. Rub the marinade over the chicken thoroughly. Transfer to refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and grill until cooked through. Turn once halfway through grilling; this should take about 5 – 6 minutes per side. The thickest center should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit and thighs should have slight char marks.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and cover with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Dice grilled chicken into cubes. Sprinkle diced chicken over one or two tortillas per taco. Top each with a slice of avocado, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm by spritzing each taco with lime juice and drizzling with hot sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your taco night.

Fresh Garnishes

• Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty spritz over each taco.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds a crunchy texture and bright flavors with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños.
• Avocado Salsa Verde: A creamy avocado salsa that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.

Accompaniments

• Pickled Red Onions: These tangy onions add a delightful crunch and acidity to balance the richness of the tacos.
• Hot Sauce: Provide various hot sauces for those who enjoy an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice dish that pairs well with the spices in your tacos.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans make a hearty addition that rounds out the meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To get the most out of your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 6 hours enhances flavor depth.
• Proper Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (425 – 450 degrees) for optimal cooking results.
• Resting Time: Letting the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes ensures it remains juicy when cut into cubes.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs for garnishing to amplify flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pair your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos with delightful side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime juice and salt, perfect for scooping with tortilla chips.
2. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, bell peppers, and cilantro dressed in lime vinaigrette.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make for a great appetizer.
5. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and onion dressed lightly with lime.
6. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled until tender provide a colorful side dish.

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 seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning the marinade can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to follow the recipe and taste as you go.
• Improper marinating time: Not allowing enough marinating time can result in less flavorful chicken. Aim for at least 1 hour, but up to 6 hours is ideal for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many chicken pieces on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets enough heat.
• Neglecting rest time: Cutting into the chicken right away can make it dry. Letting it rest allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
• Ignoring taco toppings: Forgetting fresh toppings like avocado, onion, and cilantro can make tacos less appealing. Use a good variety of toppings for flavor and texture.
• Skipping lime juice spritz: Not adding lime juice before serving can lead to a lack of brightness. A spritz of lime enhances flavors beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep taco shells separate from the filling to maintain their crunch.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Taco shells should be stored in a cool, dry place, but they can also be frozen for extended shelf life.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos.

What type of chicken is best for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs provide great flavor and remain juicy when grilled, making them ideal for street tacos.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! Beef or turkey also works well in street tacos if you’re looking for variations on this recipe.

How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

You can add different toppings like shredded cheese, jalapeños, or salsa according to your preference for extra flavor and spice.

What side dishes go well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Serve these tacos with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements their flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or switch up the protein. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or casual dinners at home. Dive into this tasty dish and impress your friends and family!