Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos! Chicken thighs are soaked in a bright, well-seasoned marinade and grilled to perfection, giving you those irresistible charred crispy pieces. These chicken street tacos are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, you’ll find yourself serving these chicken tacos to guests who will undoubtedly shower you with compliments!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines lime juice, garlic, and spices for a savory punch.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious tacos ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers or main dishes; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with protein and fresh flavors, these tacos are a guilt-free indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about these tasty tacos at every gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, gather the necessary tools for an easier cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor essential for authentic street tacos.
• Gallon-size resealable bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a consistent marinade.

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 the 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, chili powder, cilantro, 1 tsp salt, and 3/4 tsp pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the bag. Seal the bag while releasing any trapped air. Rub the marinade over the chicken thoroughly. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook 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, with slight charring on the thighs.

Step 4: Rest and Dice

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate, cover it with foil, and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Then dice the grilled chicken into cubes.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos

Sprinkle diced chicken over one or two warmed tortillas per taco. Add an avocado slice, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm by spritzing each taco with lime juice and drizzling with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

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

Classic Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of flavor and freshness to each bite.
• Diced Onions: Use red or yellow onions for a slightly sweet crunch.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spices in the grilled chicken perfectly.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro enhances the taco’s flavors.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce can kick up the heat for spice lovers.
• Crema: Drizzling sour cream or Mexican crema adds richness to the tacos.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: A spritz of lime juice adds brightness and balances the flavors.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy some extra heat, pickled jalapeños provide a tangy kick.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To achieve the ultimate grilled chicken street tacos, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 6 hours enhances flavor depth.
• Use Bone-In Thighs: For juicier chicken, opt for bone-in thighs instead of boneless.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure the grill is hot enough (425-450°F) for perfect charring on the chicken.
• Rest After Grilling: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes helps retain its juices before cutting it.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a great side that complements tacos well.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness alongside your tacos.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft tortillas.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa offer a delightful appetizer or snack.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter pairs wonderfully with any Mexican dish.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Charred corn on the cob topped with cheese, mayo, and chili powder is always a hit at taco night.
7. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is not only delicious but also adds healthy fats to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can be simple and fun, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating adds flavor, leaving chicken in the marinade for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 1 to 6 hours.
• Neglecting to preheat the grill: A hot grill is crucial for achieving that perfect char. Preheat it to medium-high heat (425-450 degrees).
• Skipping the resting step: Letting the grilled chicken rest ensures it retains its juices. Cover it with foil and let it rest for at least 5 minutes.
• Using the wrong taco shells: Opt for mini corn taco shells for the best flavor and texture. Flour tortillas may not hold up as well with juicy fillings.
• Not balancing flavors: Make sure to add garnishes like avocado and cilantro to enhance taste and texture. Don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Grilled chicken street tacos can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a taco on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, answered for your convenience.

What cuts of chicken work best for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their juicy texture. They stay moist while grilling, making them perfect for tacos.

Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like cheese, jalapeños, or different types of salsa according to your taste preferences.

How spicy are Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

The spice level depends on how much ancho chili powder you use. Adjust this ingredient based on your heat preference.

What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Serve these tacos with Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad. They also go great with chips and guacamole!

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize them according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a night in, these tacos promise satisfaction every time. Give them a try today!