Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there! Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are bursting with flavor and perfect for any gathering. The marinade brings out the juiciness of chicken thighs, making them a hit among guests. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive party, these tacos will impress everyone at the table. Plus, they are easy to make and customizable to suit various tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lime juice, garlic, and spices ensures every bite is full of vibrant taste.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with your favorite toppings or side dishes for a customizable experience.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties or family meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, they are a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below is a list of essential items you will need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon size resealable bag
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A high-quality grill ensures even cooking and those delicious char marks that enhance flavor.
• Gallon Size Resealable Bag: Perfect for marinating chicken without making a mess; it locks in flavors effectively.
• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining marinade ingredients smoothly.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients safely.

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

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

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade and place it on the grill.
2. Grill until fully cooked through, turning once halfway through grilling—about 5-6 minutes per side (the thickest part should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit).

Step 4: Rest and Dice

1. Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and cover with foil to let it rest for about 5 minutes.
2. Dice grilled chicken into cubes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Sprinkle diced chicken over one or two warmed taco shells per serving.
2. Top with avocado slices, onions, and extra cilantro as desired.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm tacos with lime wedges on the side for spritzing and drizzle with hot sauce if preferred.

Enjoy your deliciously crafted Grilled Chicken Street Tacos that are sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are versatile and fun to serve. You can create a taco bar or plate them elegantly for a dinner party. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your taco experience.

Taco Bar Extravaganza

• Set up a taco bar with all the fixings, allowing guests to customize their tacos with toppings such as diced onions, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.

Avocado Crema Drizzle

• Create a smooth avocado crema by blending ripe avocados with lime juice and garlic. Drizzle this over the tacos for an extra creamy texture.

Fresh Salsa Options

• Offer a variety of salsas, from pico de gallo to mango salsa, so guests can enjoy different flavors with their grilled chicken tacos.

Corn Salad Side

• Serve a refreshing corn salad on the side. Combine sweet corn with diced bell peppers, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro for a perfect complement to the tacos.

Pickled Red Onions

• Add pickled red onions for a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the grilled chicken’s flavor. They can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

Lime Wedges for Zest

• Always have lime wedges on hand! A squeeze of fresh lime juice takes the flavors of the tacos to another level.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are always a hit, consider these essential tips for perfection every time you make them.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 6 hours. This allows the spices to penetrate thoroughly.

• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill adequately. Cooking at medium-high heat helps achieve that delicious char while keeping the chicken juicy.

• Don’t Overcrowd: When grilling, give each piece enough space on the grill. This ensures even cooking and better searing.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful when you dice it.

• Warm Tortillas: Warm your mini corn taco shells before serving. This makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like radishes or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that will complement your tacos beautifully.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomato sauce and spices makes a classic accompaniment that balances well with tacos.

2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness, making them an ideal partner for your street tacos.

3. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served alongside fresh guacamole offer a crunchy snack before or during your meal.

4. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime is a delicious side that celebrates Mexican flavors.

5. Cabbage Slaw: A simple slaw made of cabbage, carrots, and lime dressing adds crunch and freshness alongside your rich tacos.

6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender add color and nutrition while pairing well with grilled chicken’s smoky flavor.

7. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad featuring black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro provides protein along with vibrant colors on your plate.

8. Tortilla Soup: A warm bowl of tortilla soup can serve as an exciting starter that sets the mood for enjoying tasty street tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold Marinade Mistake: Skipping the marinade can result in bland chicken. Always marinate your chicken for at least one hour to enhance flavor.
• Bold Overcooking Issue: Cooking the chicken too long will make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part reaches 165°F.
• Bold Wrong Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low of a temperature prevents that charred flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
• Bold Taco Assembly Error: Loading too many toppings can make tacos messy. Stick with a few key ingredients for better balance and easier handling.
• Bold Ignoring Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling releases juices, making it dry. Let it rest for five minutes to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Freeze grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake wrapped tacos for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat tacos on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm tacos in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Chicken Street Tacos.

Can I use other meats in Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef or turkey for different flavors.

What toppings go well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Popular toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and lime juice.

How do I prevent my tortillas from breaking?

Warm your tortillas before assembling tacos. This makes them more pliable and less likely to crack.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delightful dish that brings flavor and excitement to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize toppings or even switch up proteins as you please. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious street-style tacos right at home!