Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos. This dish features tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty mix and grilled to perfection, making it an excellent choice for casual gatherings or family dinners. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors ensures everyone will be asking for seconds. Perfect for taco night or a fun summer BBQ, these street tacos are not just easy to make but also loaded with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The marinade brings out the natural taste of the chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tacos ready in no time!
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you serve them as appetizers or the main course, these tacos fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Friends and family will rave about these tacos; they’re always a hit at gatherings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs and veggies elevates this dish, making it wholesome and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Gallon size resealable bag
• Tongs
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, adding a smoky flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients for the marinade without any mess.
• Gallon Size Resealable Bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while saving space in your fridge.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping and serving the chicken without burning your hands.

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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

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 then seal tightly while releasing any trapped air. Rub the marinade over each piece of chicken thoroughly. Transfer to your 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 between 425 – 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade. Grill until cooked through, turning once halfway through grilling. This should take about 5 – 6 minutes per side. The thickest center should register at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit and thighs should be slightly charred.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and cover with foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before cutting.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Dice grilled chicken into cubes. Sprinkle some diced chicken on one or two tortillas per taco then add an avocado slice, diced onions, and additional cilantro.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with lime wedges on the side to spritz over each taco as well as hot sauce if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos will surely impress your guests. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Sliced Radishes: Add a crisp texture and peppery flavor that complements the chicken.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, top your tacos with pickled jalapeños.
• Creamy Avocado Sauce: Drizzle some avocado sauce for extra creaminess and flavor.

Flavorful Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken.
• Corn Salsa: Enjoy the crunch of corn combined with bell peppers and lime for added zest.

Accompaniments

• Mexican Rice: Serve with fluffy Mexican rice flavored with spices for a filling side.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and pair well with tacos.
• Chips and Guacamole: Start your meal with tortilla chips and guacamole for a classic appetizer.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Perfecting Grilled Chicken Street Tacos is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough (425-450°F) before cooking to achieve that perfect char.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each piece of chicken enough space to cook evenly; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy by allowing the juices to redistribute.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Warm tortillas on the grill or stovetop before serving. This makes them more pliable and flavorful.
• Experiment with Sauces: Don’t shy away from trying different sauces like chipotle mayo or yogurt-based dressings for added flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Spanish Rice: A classic side, Spanish rice is seasoned with tomatoes and spices, providing a flavorful base.
2. Black Beans: Rich in protein, black beans can be served warm or cold as a hearty side dish.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime adds freshness that pairs nicely with tacos.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn bring color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a delightful side that everyone loves.
6. Chili Lime Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad sprinkled with chili powder adds a sweet-spicy contrast to the savory tacos.
7. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside salsa make for an irresistible snack.
8. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a filling addition that complements the flavors of the tacos well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key elements that can elevate your dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold marinade miscalculation: Not using enough marinade can lead to bland chicken. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and allows for adequate marination time.
• Bold neglecting resting time: Cutting the chicken right off the grill can dry it out. Always let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Bold overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long will make it tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy results.
• Bold skipping toppings: A taco isn’t complete without toppings! Don’t forget avocado, onions, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
• Bold using cold tortillas: Serving tacos with cold tortillas detracts from their appeal. Warm your mini corn taco shells before filling them.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Chicken Street Tacos in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm tacos directly on the rack for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place tacos in a skillet over medium heat and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about more details? Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Grilled Chicken Street Tacos.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

What toppings work best with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Popular toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.

How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like jalapeños, salsa, or cheese for extra flavor!

What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Serve these tacos with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to complement the meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos offer a delightful blend of flavors that are sure to impress. Their versatility means you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner!