Chicken Street Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Street Tacos are flavorful, customizable, and incredibly easy to make. The juicy marinated chicken is cooked to perfection, and with the combination of fresh toppings like onion, cilantro, and lime, you get the perfect balance of bright, savory flavors. The best part? This dish is quick enough for a weeknight dinner and versatile enough to fit any occasion. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your personal tastes, making it a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp chili powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp dried oregano

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

8-12 small corn tortillas (street taco-style)

½ cup white onion, finely chopped

½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Lime wedges (for serving)

Optional Toppings:

Cotija cheese

Avocado slices

Salsa verde

Pickled red onions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is golden and slightly charred.

Rest and Slice:

Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or dicing it into small, bite-sized pieces.

Warm the Tortillas:

While the chicken rests, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20–30 seconds per side, until they are soft and slightly toasted.

Assemble the Tacos:

Fill each tortilla with the cooked chicken, then top with chopped onion and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and any optional toppings like cotija cheese, avocado, salsa verde, or pickled red onions.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Marinate Time: 30 minutes (up to 8 hours)

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the marinade for extra heat.

• Different Meat: Try swapping the chicken for carne asada, pork, or shrimp for a twist on this street taco classic.

• Low-Carb: Serve the tacos in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter option.

• Vegan: Use grilled vegetables or marinated tofu instead of chicken for a plant-based version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its juiciness. Warm tortillas in a skillet before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy. If you use breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness and be careful not to overcook them.

How do I keep tortillas warm for a crowd?

Wrap the tortillas in foil and keep them in a warm oven or use a tortilla warmer lined with a towel to maintain their warmth.

How can I make these tacos spicier or milder?

To adjust the spice level, add more or less chili powder or hot sauce. You can also include jalapeños or chipotle peppers in the marinade for extra heat.

Can I prep the chicken in advance?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours. It also freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time for future meals.

How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the heat to prevent it from drying out.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor, but cooking it in a skillet also works perfectly. Just make sure to sear the chicken until golden and cooked through for the best results.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that your tortillas and any optional toppings, like sauces, are also gluten-free.

How do I make these tacos more authentic?

For a more authentic street taco, use fresh, handmade corn tortillas and add traditional toppings like salsa verde, cotija cheese, and pickled onions.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare any toppings ahead of time. Just cook the chicken and warm the tortillas when you’re ready to assemble the tacos.

Can I use a different type of tortilla?

While corn tortillas are traditional, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer, though they won’t provide the same texture and flavor that corn tortillas do in street tacos.

Conclusion

These Chicken Street Tacos are a simple, flavorful way to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at home. With juicy, marinated chicken, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas, they’re perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive taco nights with friends. Customize the toppings to suit your tastes, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this classic street food in your own kitchen!

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