Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there, Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are perfect for any occasion. With juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of spices and grilled to perfection, these tacos are bursting with flavor. They’re easy to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even special celebrations. You’ll love how quickly they come together and how much your guests will enjoy them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade combines fresh lime juice, garlic, and spices for a vibrant taste that elevates each bite.
• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos with various toppings like avocado, onions, and cilantro to suit every palate.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to get compliments.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Kids love tacos! This recipe is an easy way to please the whole family while introducing them to new flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Make sure you gather everything you need before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon-size resealable bag
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and charred texture on the chicken.
• Gallon-size resealable bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine the marinade ingredients smoothly for better flavor absorption.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken on the grill without piercing it, keeping all those juices locked in.

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 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

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 bag. Seal bag while releasing trapped air. Rub marinade over chicken.
4. Transfer to refrigerator; allow to marinate at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade and grill until cooked through.
2. Turn once halfway through grilling (about 5 – 6 minutes per side). The thickest center should register at least 165 degrees and should be slightly charred.

Step 4: Rest and Dice

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

Step 5: Assemble Tacos

1. Sprinkle diced chicken over one or two tortillas per taco.
2. Add an avocado slice, diced onions, and additional cilantro.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with a spritz of lime juice and drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual dinner, these tacos can be customized to suit any occasion.

Taco Bar Extravaganza

• Create a taco bar with all the fixings. Guests can build their own tacos with toppings like avocado, cheese, and salsas.

Family-Style Platter

• Serve the tacos on a large platter. This makes it easy for everyone to help themselves and enjoy a communal dining experience.

Party Appetizer

• Cut the grilled chicken into smaller pieces and serve them as bite-sized appetizers. Pair with toothpicks for easy eating.

Casual Lunch Option

• Enjoy these tacos as a quick lunch. They are easy to pack and perfect for picnics or office lunches.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To take your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos to the next level, consider these helpful tips. Each step enhances flavor and presentation.

• Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for 6 hours instead of just 1 hour.

• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill until it’s very hot. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.

• Rest the Chicken: Always let the grilled chicken rest before cutting. This keeps it juicy and tender.

• Warm Taco Shells: Warm your corn taco shells on the grill for a few seconds before serving. This adds extra 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 great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the flavors of the tacos wonderfully.

2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the lighter tacos.

3. Corn Salsa: A refreshing corn salsa adds sweetness and crunch, making it an excellent accompaniment.

4. Guacamole: Rich and creamy guacamole is always a favorite that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.

5. Chips and Salsa: A classic starter, chips served with fresh salsa keep things light while adding flavor.

6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled alongside the chicken offer color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making grilled chicken street tacos can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Marinade Mistakes: Skipping the marinade or not allowing enough time for marination can result in bland chicken. Ensure you marinate for at least one hour for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Chicken Thickness: Cooking chicken thighs of uneven thickness can lead to overcooked or undercooked pieces. Always choose thighs that are similar in size for even cooking.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many chicken pieces on the grill at once can lower the temperature and prevent nice charring. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Forgetting the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 5 minutes to retain moisture.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Dismissing fresh toppings like cilantro and avocado will make your tacos less vibrant. Always include fresh ingredients for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• For longer storage, wrap individual tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped tacos for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual tacos on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place tacos on a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about grilled chicken street tacos, here are some common questions answered.

How do I make Grilled Chicken Street Tacos spicy?

You can add chopped jalapeños or a spicier chili powder to the marinade for extra heat. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or even shrimp while following similar marination and grilling methods.

What toppings go best with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Popular toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice. Feel free to customize!

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least one hour; however, up to six hours is ideal if you want deeper flavors.

Final Thoughts

Grilled chicken street tacos are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. These versatile tacos allow you to experiment with different toppings and spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and customize it with your favorite ingredients!