Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there, Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a must-try for any taco lover! With tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lime and spices, these tacos are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or casual get-togethers, these tacos will surely satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious tacos without any hassle.
• Flavor Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile: Serve them at parties, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week—these tacos fit any occasion!
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh herbs and ingredients ensures every bite is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Customizable: Top your tacos with anything you love—from avocado slices to chopped cilantro—for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making the perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, gather your tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon size resealable bag
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Achieves that perfect char on your chicken, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Gallon Size Resealable Bag: Great for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures all marinade ingredients mix thoroughly for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the 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: Prepare the Marinade

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.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour mixture over chicken in bag then seal bag while releasing any trapped air. Rub marinade over chicken. Transfer to refrigerator and allow to marinate at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill over medium-high heat (it should come to 425 – 450 degrees).

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and grill until cooked through. Turn once halfway through grilling, about 5 – 6 minutes per side. The thickest center should register at least 165°F and thighs should be slightly charred.

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate, cover with foil and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Tacos

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

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm, spritzing each taco with lime juice and drizzling with 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 ways to enhance your meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Avocado Slices: Add creamy texture and richness to your tacos.
• Chopped Onions: Use red or yellow onions for a mild, sweet crunch.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Sauces and Salsas

• Salsa Verde: This tangy green salsa pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
• Hot Sauce: For those who like a kick, drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the tacos.
• Creamy Avocado Sauce: Blend avocado with lime, garlic, and yogurt for a smooth topping.

Accompaniments

• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty flavor boost.
• Corn Salsa: A fresh corn salsa adds sweetness and crunch to each bite.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

To achieve the best Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, follow these tips for perfect results every time.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, but longer is better for deeper flavor.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough (425-450°F) before placing the chicken on it to get that perfect char.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Cook in batches if necessary; this ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Let it Rest: Allow grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting; this keeps it juicy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality produce to enhance flavors dramatically.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pair your Grilled Chicken Street Tacos with these delightful side dishes for a complete meal experience.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, and spices complements tacos beautifully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a protein-packed side that balances well with tacos.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn drizzled with lime and chili powder makes a fun addition.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa are perfect for snacking before tacos.
5. Guacamole: A creamy dip made from ripe avocados enhances the taco experience with its rich flavor.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and crunch alongside your savory tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland tacos. Aim for at least 1 hour, but preferably 6 hours for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and cause uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Neglecting the resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, leaving you with dry meat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Using cold tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can lead to a less enjoyable texture. Warm your taco shells before filling them with delicious ingredients.
• Skipping fresh toppings: Fresh ingredients like cilantro and avocado enhance flavor and texture. Don’t skip these when assembling your tacos!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container to store leftover Grilled Chicken Street Tacos.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Place grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store for up to 2 months; defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual tacos on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos.

Can I use other meats for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb for different flavors while maintaining the essence of street tacos.

How do I add spice to my Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

To increase heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a spicy salsa as toppings.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What are some good side dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Serve with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings, sauces, or even different proteins. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Try them out; you won’t be disappointed!