Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos! These tacos feature chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant and flavorful mix, grilled to perfection. You’ll find yourself reaching for those little charred crispy pieces again and again. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a casual meal, these chicken street tacos are both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Your guests will rave about them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a tasty meal ready in just 25 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with a zesty lime and spice blend that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these tacos with various toppings like avocado, cilantro, and onions for a customizable experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these tacos fit right in.
• Healthy Choice: Made with lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, these tacos are a wholesome option.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect char on your chicken.
• Gallon-sized resealable bag: This is great for marinating chicken without making a mess. It keeps all the flavors sealed in.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the marinade ingredients smoothly for an even coating on your chicken.

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 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

1. Add the chicken to a gallon-sized 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.
4. Rub the marinade over the chicken thoroughly. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour (up to 6 hours).

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Get your grill ready by preheating it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 425 – 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
2. Grill each side for about 5 – 6 minutes until fully cooked through (the thickest part should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit).
3. The chicken should have slight charring.

Step 4: Rest and Prepare Toppings

After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before dicing it into cubes.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

For each taco:
1. Sprinkle diced grilled chicken over one or two warmed tortillas.
2. Top with avocado slices, chopped onions, and cilantro.

Step 6: Serve!

Serve warm tacos with lime wedges on the side and drizzle with your favorite hot sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delightful meal that can be customized in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your taco experience.

Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a zesty crunch.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy mango salsa brings a tropical flavor that pairs well with grilled chicken.

Creamy Additions

• Guacamole: This classic avocado dip offers creaminess and richness, balancing the flavors.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and coolness to each bite.

Crunchy Toppings

• Shredded Cabbage: Adds a crunchy texture and freshness to your tacos.
• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes contribute a peppery bite and vibrant color.

Lime Wedges

• Fresh Lime Juice: Squeezing lime over your tacos enhances the flavors and adds brightness.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To make sure your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are the best they can be, consider these tips for perfection.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 1 hour boosts flavor significantly.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding chicken for those perfect grill marks and even cooking.
• Use Boneless Thighs: They stay juicy and tender compared to breast meat, making for a better taco experience.
• Rest Your Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after grilling helps retain juices for moist bites.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

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

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the tacos perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add heartiness and richness that pair well with tacos.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter brings sweetness that balances savory tacos.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a perfect appetizer before digging into tacos.
5. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and cilantro adds color and protein to your meal.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese, chili powder, and lime is a delicious favorite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making grilled chicken street tacos can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Marinade Timing: Marinating the chicken for too short a time can lead to bland tacos. Aim for at least one hour, but up to six hours for the best flavor.

• Ignoring Temperature: Not preheating the grill properly can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your grill reaches 425-450 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the chicken.

• Skipping Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can dry it out. Let it rest for five minutes to keep those juices locked in.

• Overstuffing Tacos: Adding too many toppings can make tacos fall apart. Stick to a few key ingredients for balance and ease of eating.

• Forgetting Freshness: Using old or wilted ingredients will affect taste. Always use fresh produce, especially cilantro and avocado, for vibrant flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to three days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze them for up to two months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

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

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about grilled chicken street tacos, we’ve got you covered!

What type of chicken is best for grilled chicken street tacos?

Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal due to their flavor and juiciness. They grill well and stay tender.

Can I make grilled chicken street tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just grill when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my grilled chicken street tacos?

Experiment with different toppings like cheese, sour cream, or salsa. You can also adjust spices in the marinade to suit your preferences.

What should I serve with grilled chicken street tacos?

These tasty tacos pair well with sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Lime wedges make a great addition too!

Final Thoughts

Grilled chicken street tacos are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings and spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the compliments from family and friends!