Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos! These delicious tacos feature juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of flavors and grilled to perfection. They’re perfect for casual dinners, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With their irresistible taste and easy preparation, these tacos will become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade brings out vibrant tastes that make each bite unforgettable.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tacos ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or a fun party appetizer.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, they’re a guilt-free indulgence.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite ingredients to make them truly unique!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Gallon-sized resealable bag
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Gallon-sized resealable bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without making a mess.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the marinade ingredients easily.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and slicing the grilled chicken.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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: Marinate the Chicken

• Add chicken to a gallon-sized 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 the mixture over the chicken in the bag. Seal the bag while releasing any trapped air. Rub the marinade over the chicken.
• Transfer to refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

• Remove chicken from marinade.
• Grill until cooked through, turning once halfway through grilling (about 5 – 6 minutes per side). The thickest center should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit with some charring.

Step 4: Rest and Dice

• Transfer grilled chicken to a plate. Cover with foil and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
• Dice the grilled chicken into cubes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

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

Step 6: Serve

• Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for spritzing. Drizzle with hot sauce if you like some heat!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Classic Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Diced Onions: Provide a nice crunch and a hint of sharpness.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy texture that balances the spices perfectly.

Lime Squeeze

• Lime Wedges: A spritz of lime juice enhances the overall taste and brightness of the tacos.

Spicy Kick

• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy an extra kick, drizzle some hot sauce on top.

Side Dishes

• Refried Beans: A classic side that complements the flavors in tacos well.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice with spices that pairs nicely with all the toppings.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To achieve mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for up to 6 hours intensifies the flavor profile.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough (425 – 450 degrees) for that perfect char on the chicken.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and high-quality olive oil make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Rest the Chicken: Allowing grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes helps retain its juices for a tender bite.
• Warm Up Taco Shells: Heating your corn taco shells enhances their flavor and prevents them from breaking easily.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pair your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, and chili powder for a smoky flavor.
2. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing side.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip mixed with lime, garlic, and spices; perfect for dipping or topping.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa for an easy appetizer or snack.
5. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad featuring black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro dressed in lime vinaigrette.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from grated zucchini; serve with a yogurt dip for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delicious treat, but certain mistakes can dampen your experience. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken enough can lead to bland tacos. Aim for at least one hour of marinating time for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure even heat distribution.
• Under-seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can make your tacos taste flat. Always taste your marinade and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Not Letting Chicken Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling will release juices. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before dicing for juicier results.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them up slightly before assembling your tacos for a better texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored 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 in 30-second intervals until warm, usually around 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add tacos. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Chicken Street Tacos that may help you.

How do I make Grilled Chicken Street Tacos spicier?

You can add more chili powder or incorporate diced jalapeños into your marinade to give your tacos an extra kick!

Can I use other meats for these street tacos?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference while keeping the same marinade.

What toppings work well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Consider adding diced tomatoes, sour cream, or fresh salsa to enhance flavors and textures.

Are Grilled Chicken Street Tacos gluten-free?

To ensure they are gluten-free, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and check any additional toppings for gluten content.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos offer a vibrant mix of flavors that everyone will enjoy. They are versatile; you can customize them with various toppings or swap proteins as desired. Try this recipe at your next gathering, and watch it become a quick favorite!