Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

One of the best taco recipes out there is Grilled Chicken Street Tacos. These tacos are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. The chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant blend of spices and grilled to perfection, providing a delicious charred flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also deliver big on taste, making them a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with bright and zesty flavors that enhance every bite.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tacos ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as they are or customize with your favorite toppings; they cater to all tastes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, these tacos always impress!

Tools and Preparation

To make these Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon-sized resealable bag
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Gallon-sized resealable bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Mixing bowl and whisk: Helps combine the marinade ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 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 thighs to a gallon-sized resealable bag.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, ancho chili powder, cilantro, 1 tsp of salt, and 3/4 tsp of pepper.
3. Pour this marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it while releasing any trapped air and rub the marinade over the chicken well.
4. Transfer to the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 1 hour but up to 6 hours for optimal flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Remove the 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 and should be slightly charred.

Step 4: Let It Rest

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

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Dice the grilled chicken into cubes. Sprinkle a generous amount over one or two tortillas per taco. Top with an avocado slice, diced onions, and cilantro.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm by spritzing each taco with fresh lime juice and drizzling with your favorite hot sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Street Tacos!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a family meal, these tacos can be easily customized to please everyone at the table.

Taco Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy some heat, add sliced jalapeños to your tacos.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can provide a creamy contrast to the spicy flavors.

Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness to your tacos.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs well with the grilled chicken for a unique twist.

Accompaniments

• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for spritzing on your tacos for extra zest.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad complements the flavors of the tacos wonderfully.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

For unforgettable Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, a few simple techniques can make all the difference in flavor and presentation.

• Marinate Properly: Allow chicken thighs to marinate for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (425 – 450°F) for that perfect char and juicy interior.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before chopping; this keeps it juicy.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm mini corn taco shells before serving; it enhances texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a wonderful base alongside tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty complement to the lightness of tacos.
3. Guacamole: A bowl of fresh guacamole adds richness and pairs perfectly with the chicken’s flavors.
4. Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa provide a classic appetizer option.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrition, enhancing your taco spread.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This flavorful corn dish, slathered in mayo and cheese, is always a hit!
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime juice balances out the richness of the tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can result in bland tacos. Aim for at least one hour or up to six hours for maximum flavor.
• Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken: Opting for chicken breast instead of thighs can lead to dry tacos. Chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, perfect for grilling.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can cause the chicken to cook unevenly. Always heat it to medium-high before placing the chicken on it.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature. Grill in batches if necessary for even cooking and char.
• Neglecting to Rest the Meat: Cutting into the chicken right off the grill will release juices. Letting it rest for five minutes ensures juicy, tender chicken in your tacos.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add tacos, and warm for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Grilled Chicken Street Tacos, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other meats for these street tacos?

You can absolutely substitute other meats like beef or pork! Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

What toppings work well with Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?

Besides avocado and cilantro, consider adding salsa, cheese, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor!

How do I make these tacos spicier?

To add heat, include diced jalapeños in your taco mix or use a spicier hot sauce when serving.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at your table. Try them today!