What is Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe?
Grilled chicken tacos are a delicious and versatile dish that blends the smoky flavors of grilled chicken with the tangy zest of traditional taco toppings. This easy grilled chicken tacos recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer BBQ, or any time you’re craving a satisfying, flavorful meal. Grilled to perfection and served with fresh taco toppings, these tacos offer a burst of authentic Mexican flavors, and can be customized to fit your taste and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re looking for authentic chicken tacos recipe or exploring healthier options like healthy grilled chicken tacos, this recipe hits all the right notes for taco lovers. Plus, it’s super versatile! You can use boneless chicken breast or thighs, marinate with your favorite chicken marinade recipes for grilling, and add your choice of toppings like fresh cilantro, onions, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
Table of Contents
Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe :
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Yield | 8 tacos |
Ingredients:
- Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Taco Ingredients:
- 8 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas if preferred)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onions
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo (optional)
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar (optional)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This homemade taco seasoning for chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor to the meat, and you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking by adding more chili powder or hot sauce.
Place your chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that authentic taco taste, whether you’re making mexican grilled chicken tacos or a simple weeknight dinner.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush the grill grates with a light coating of oil to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick. Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
The chicken should have beautiful grill marks and a slightly charred exterior. This is what gives grilled chicken tacos their smoky, mouthwatering flavor. Take the chicken off the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before cutting it into slices.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken is resting, warm your tortillas. You can do this directly on the grill for 20-30 seconds per side or use a stovetop pan. Warming the tortillas brings out their flavor and makes them pliable for assembling tacos. If you prefer a slightly crispy texture, you can char them slightly over an open flame or grill.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or dice it into small pieces. Lay the grilled chicken in the center of each tortilla, making sure each taco gets a generous amount of chicken.
Top with your choice of chicken taco ingredients: fresh cilantro, onions, avocado, and a sprinkle of queso fresco or cheddar if you like. A squeeze of lime juice over the top adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the taco. For extra heat, drizzle some hot sauce or salsa.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the tacos immediately while the chicken is still warm, and enjoy them with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad. These grilled chicken street tacos are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a casual family dinner or for a summer cookout.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Serving Size | 2 tacos |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe can be on your table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious in a hurry.
- Healthy and Versatile: Grilled chicken is a lean protein option, and this recipe offers a variety of fresh, wholesome toppings. It’s easily adaptable to fit gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-carb diets.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a backyard BBQ, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser, especially with authentic grilled chicken tacos flavor.
Key Tips for Success
- Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes ensures it absorbs all the delicious spices and lime juice, giving you tender, flavorful meat.
- Grill the Chicken Over Medium-High Heat: This helps to get those perfect grill marks and cook the chicken evenly without drying it out.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps it juicy and makes it easier to slice or shred.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Chicken: Add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier kick.
- Taco Toppings: Customize your tacos with any toppings you like! You can add pickled jalapeños, sour cream, or even a dollop of guacamole for extra creaminess.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the grilled chicken in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter, low-carb meal.
You’ll Also Love:
If you enjoyed this grilled chicken tacos recipe, you might also like these:
- Shredded Chicken Tacos: Perfect for using up leftover chicken, these tacos are just as flavorful and quick to make.
- BBQ Chicken Tacos: A sweet and smoky twist on the classic grilled chicken taco, made with a tangy BBQ sauce.
- Chicken Fajitas: A sizzling mix of grilled chicken, onions, and bell peppers served with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Grilled chicken tacos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and they offer endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a tasty dish to serve at your next party, this recipe for grilled chicken tacos is sure to impress. With easy preparation and fresh ingredients, you’ll be enjoying authentic, restaurant-quality tacos in no time!
Give the Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe a try and enjoy the flavorful, wholesome goodness it brings! Perfect for any meal or a quick snack. Snap a pic and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram – we’re excited to see your twist on this tasty dish!
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