Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos! These delightful tacos feature marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep, these tacos are sure to impress. The seasoned chicken combined with fresh toppings makes them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lime and rich spices for an unforgettable taste.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tacos ready in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these tacos fit right in.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, they make for a wholesome meal option.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. Below are some essential items you will need to prepare this recipe efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon size resealable bag
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A grill allows you to achieve that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Gallon size resealable bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken without mess, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
• Whisk: Helps mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor infusion.

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 Serving

• 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 the marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it while releasing any trapped air.
4. Rub the marinade over the chicken and transfer to the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat (425 – 450 degrees).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
2. Grill until 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: Let It Rest & Prepare Toppings

1. Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and cover it with foil; 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 tortillas per taco.
2. Add an avocado slice, diced onion, and additional cilantro as desired.

Step 6: Serve Your Tacos

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for spritzing and drizzle with hot sauce if you like some heat!

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. They make for a fun meal that’s perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Salsa

• Pico de Gallo: A classic mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice that adds freshness and crunch.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet mango combined with red onion and lime for a fruity twist that complements the grilled chicken.

Creamy Toppings

• Avocado Crema: Blend ripe avocado with lime juice and yogurt for a smooth, creamy topping.
• Chipotle Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a spicy and smoky kick.

Crunchy Garnishes

• Crispy Slaw: Shredded cabbage tossed with lime juice and salt provides a crunchy texture.
• Pickled Red Onions: Quick-pickled onions add tanginess and color to your tacos.

Extra Flavor Boosters

• Hot Sauce: Offer various hot sauces for those who like it spicy.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro sprinkled on top enhances the flavors of the tacos.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken street tacos, consider these essential tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Bold Marinade: Use fresh ingredients like lime juice and garlic in your marinade for maximum flavor absorption.
• Proper Grilling Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (425-450°F) for ideal cooking conditions.
• Even Cooking: Turn the chicken only once while grilling to develop nice char marks without drying out the meat.
• Resting Time: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before cutting; this keeps it juicy.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your taco shells on the grill or stovetop just before serving to enhance their texture.
• Garnish Wisely: Use fresh toppings like avocado slices and cilantro right before serving for added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can elevate the entire meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, spices, and herbs makes a great base alongside tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and a hearty complement to your tacos.
3. Corn Elote: Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds sweetness and spice.
4. Chips and Guacamole: Crispy tortilla chips served with rich guacamole create a perfect appetizer or side dish.
5. Zesty Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad dressed with lime juice offers a cool contrast to spicy tacos.
6. Vegetable Fajitas: Sautéed bell peppers and onions make a great side dish that matches the Mexican theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Bold marinade: Skipping the marinade time can lead to bland chicken. Always marinate for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking on too low a heat can result in rubbery chicken. Ensure your grill reaches medium-high heat for perfect grilling.
• Bold ingredient freshness: Using stale or old spices can dull flavors. Always use fresh spices and herbs for a vibrant taste.
• Bold taco assembly: Overloading tacos with too much filling can make them hard to eat. Aim for balanced portions to maintain structure and ease of enjoyment.
• Bold resting time: Cutting the chicken immediately after grilling can dry it out. Let it rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They are best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap tacos in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the tacos, and warm them for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Chicken Street Tacos:

How do I make Grilled Chicken Street Tacos spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or spicy salsa to your tacos before serving to kick up the heat.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey depending on your preference.

What toppings pair well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Consider adding fresh salsa, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce as delightful toppings.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are an exciting dish that brings bold flavors and easy preparation together. This recipe is versatile—you can customize it with various toppings or even different proteins. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!