Chicken Street Tacos Recipe

Short description

These Chicken Street Tacos are bursting with bold, fresh flavors. Featuring juicy marinated chicken grilled to perfection, they are served on warm corn tortillas with classic toppings like pico de gallo, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, authentic street taco flavor with simple ingredients

• Quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights

• Uses boneless chicken thighs for juicy, tender results

• Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

• Great for entertaining or meal prep

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

• Mini corn tortillas (or regular corn tortillas)

• Orange juice

• Apple cider vinegar

• Fresh lime juice

• Garlic, minced

• Chili powder

• Dried Mexican oregano

• Paprika

• Ground cinnamon (optional)

• Kosher salt

• Black pepper

• Pico de gallo

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Lime wedges

• Optional: guacamole, sour cream, pickled red onions, hot sauce

directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, chili powder, oregano, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 4–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then chop or shred into small pieces.

5. Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet until soft and slightly charred.

6. Assemble tacos by placing chicken onto each tortilla, then top with pico de gallo, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Add any optional toppings as desired.

7. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option

• Make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade

• Try shredded chicken made in a slow cooker for a different texture

• Use flour tortillas instead of corn, if preferred

• Add toppings like avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or cheese

storage/reheating

• Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through

• Reheat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel

• Freeze cooked chicken for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 1 hour, but for best flavor, marinate overnight.

3. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and toppings in advance, but it’s best to assemble the tacos just before serving.

4. What can I use instead of pico de gallo?

You can substitute with chopped tomatoes and onions, or use a store-bought salsa.

5. How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warm them before serving and consider using two tortillas per taco for extra support.

6. Are these tacos spicy?

The base recipe is mild, but you can increase the heat with chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce.

7. Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop for similar results.

8. What toppings go well with chicken street tacos?

Cilantro, lime, pico de gallo, guacamole, pickled onions, and sour cream are all great options.

9. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F and the juices should run clear.

10. Can I use store-bought marinade?

Yes, but homemade marinade gives better control over flavor and ingredients.

Conclusion

Chicken Street Tacos are a simple yet delicious meal that delivers big flavor in every bite. With juicy marinated chicken, warm tortillas, and vibrant toppings, they bring the essence of street food to your kitchen. Perfect for quick dinners or weekend gatherings, these tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and easily tailored to suit any taste.