Oh boy, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes: Chicken Street Tacos! When I first tried these simple yet flavorful tacos at a little food truck in my hometown, my taste buds exploded with joy. They were crispy, messy, and packed to the brim with tender chicken and fresh toppings. I felt like I was tasting the essence of street food magic in every bite. Every time I take a bite of these tacos, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon spent enjoying good food and even better company.
What I love most about these Chicken Street Tacos is how versatile they can be! You can whip them up for a casual weeknight dinner or serve them at a gathering with friends and family. The smoky, flavorful chicken combined with the vibrant toppings is sure to impress everyone around the table. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get into it!
What’s in Chicken Street Tacos?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The star of the show! I love using chicken thighs for their juicy and tender texture, especially after grilling. They soak up the marinade perfectly for lots of flavor.
Olive oil: A must for marinating the chicken and searing it on the grill. The good stuff—extra virgin olive oil—adds a lovely richness to every bite.
Chili powder: This spice brings a warm, robust flavor to the chicken. If you’re like me and enjoy a little kick, feel free to add a pinch more!
Cumin: This earthy spice gives the tacos a hint of warmth, reflecting the delightful flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These are my secret weapons for a flavor-packed marinade. They add depth without overpowering the dish.
Smoked paprika: It adds a delightful smokiness to the chicken, elevating the taste and making you feel like you’re grilling over an open flame.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples bring out the best in every ingredient.
Corn tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas are the perfect vessel for all the delicious fillings. I always opt for small corn tortillas—they’re just the right size!
Diced white onion: These fresh bites add a sharp and zesty contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Chopped fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brings a burst of freshness and livens everything up. If you’re a cilantro hater, don’t fret; just leave it out!
Pico de gallo: This fresh salsa brings all sorts of flavors—tomato, onion, and a hint of lime—perfect for topping!
Guacamole: Creamy and dreamy, this is a staple on my tacos. I like to go for homemade, but store-bought works too!
Crumble cotija cheese: This salty cheese is like the cherry on top, adding a hint of creaminess and richness to each taco.
Lime: A squeeze of lime brightens everything and adds a touch of acidity—oh so important!
Optional sliced oranges: Drizzled over the tacos, they bring a fun sweetness that will surprise and delight your palate!
Is Chicken Street Tacos Good for You?
Yes, indeed! Not only are these Chicken Street Tacos absolutely delicious, but they also have some health benefits, too. Here’s a breakdown:
Chicken thighs: They are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle development and overall health. Plus, the fat in thighs is mostly healthy, giving you energy without empty calories.
Vegetables: With the pico de gallo, onion, and cilantro, you’re getting loads of vitamins and minerals. Fresh veggies keep things bright and light!
Guacamole: Packed with heart-healthy fats from avocado, guacamole brings a nutritious punch to the tacos.
However, like any dish, moderation is key! The tortillas can be higher in carbs, and the cotija cheese adds extra calories. Pair them with lots of fresh vegetables and a squeeze of lime to balance out the richness of the cheese.
What You’ll Need
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup diced white onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup pico de gallo
– 1 cup guacamole
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Optional: Sliced oranges for garnish
Servings: Approximately 4 servings (2 tacos each).
How to Make Chicken Street Tacos?
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. It’s important to get it nice and hot; trust me, you want those beautiful grill marks!
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are well-coated in that flavorful marinade.
3. Once the grill is hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has those gorgeous grill marks.
4. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces while you eagerly anticipate taco time!
5. While the chicken is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill—about 30 seconds on each side should do until they are pliable.
6. Now for the fun part! Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of chopped chicken on each tortilla.
7. Top each taco with diced onions, cilantro, pico de gallo, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. The more, the merrier, right?
8. Serve those tacos immediately with lime wedges and optional orange slices for a pop of sweetness. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Get Creative with Your Tacos!
Want to spice things up? Here are some fun tips and variations:
– Try adding some sliced jalapeños for that extra kick if you enjoy your food on the spicier side.
– Swap out chicken thighs for grilled shrimp or fish for a delicious twist.
– Don’t have cotija cheese? Feta or queso blanco can work in a pinch!
– If you’re feeling indulgent, top your tacos with a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce. It’s like a flavor explosion!
I just love these Chicken Street Tacos, and I know you will too! So gather your ingredients, get that grill going, and bring a little taste of the streets into your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s about to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. If you do make them, please share your experience; I’d love to hear what you think! Enjoy!
