There’s an unmistakable joy that comes with the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. Picture this: the scent of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill, mingling with fresh lime and spices, instantly transporting you to a bustling street market in Mexico. I found myself craving that experience after a long week, and what better way to satisfy it than with these Grilled Chicken Street Tacos?
In just 30 minutes, you can create a dish that bursts with juicy chicken thighs, topped with a creamy cilantro lime crema and fresh veggies. These tacos are not only easy to whip up, but they also cater to various dietary needs with a gluten-free option using corn tortillas. Whether you’re entertaining friends, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a satisfying dinner, these tacos deliver flavor and happiness in every bite. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why will you love these Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos?
Quick and Easy: You can whip these flavorful tacos up in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Juicy and Tender: The marinated chicken thighs ensure every bite is succulent and satisfying.
Fresh Ingredients: Packed with vibrant veggies and a creamy topping, each taco delivers crunch and color.
Gluten-Free Option: Using corn tortillas, this recipe caters to gluten-sensitive diners without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize your tacos with additional toppings or alternate proteins, making them your own!
Dive deeper into delightful taco creations with fun variations, such as grilled vegetables for a veggie twist!
Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The heart and soul of these tacos, they provide juicy flavor when grilled; chicken breasts can be a leaner substitute.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture to the marinade; avocado oil is a great substitution.
- Lime Juice – Balances flavors and tenderizes the chicken; fresh lime juice truly enhances the taste.
- Chicken Taco Seasoning – A flavorful spice blend that elevates the chicken; feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
For the Toppings
- Chopped Romaine Lettuce – Brings a delightful crunch; swap with any leafy green you prefer!
- Red Onion – Adds a sweet yet sharp flavor; consider green onions for a milder twist.
- Jalapeño – Packs a spicy kick; adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference or omit for a milder option.
- Fresh Cilantro – Offers a refreshing taste; parsley can be used if you’re not a cilantro fan.
- Cilantro Lime Crema – This creamy, tangy sauce is essential for a luscious finish; store-bought options are perfectly fine.
For the Tacos
- Corn or Flour Tortillas – The base for your authentic tacos; choose corn tortillas for a gluten-free delight!
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting these unforgettable Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos that promise to whisk you away to Mexico with every bite!
How to Make Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos
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Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and chicken taco seasoning. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
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Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will give the chicken those beautiful grill marks and enhance its flavor.
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Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 4-6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, signifying it’s fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juiciness.
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Warm Tortillas: Meanwhile, grill or microwave the corn or flour tortillas until warm and flexible, making for easy assembly without tearing.
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Assemble Tacos: Place sliced grilled chicken on the warmed tortillas. Top with chopped romaine lettuce, red onion, jalapeño, fresh cilantro, and drizzle with cilantro lime crema. Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!
Optional: Add sliced avocado for creaminess and additional flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos
Fridge: Keep any leftover cooked tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you’ve prepared extra marinated chicken, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
Reheating: Warm refrigerated tacos in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through. Add a splash of lime juice for extra zing!
Wrap for Optimal Freshness: Store tortillas separately wrapped in foil or in a sealed bag to prevent them from drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline dinner prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, which allows for deeper flavor. Simply combine the olive oil, lime juice, and taco seasoning, then coat the chicken and refrigerate. You can also chop your veggies (romaine lettuce, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro) and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving, keeping them fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy, grill the marinated chicken, warm your tortillas, and assemble the tacos. This way, you’ll have a delicious and vibrant meal ready in no time!
What to Serve with Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos?
Elevate your taco night and create a delightful feast that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Mexican Rice: A fluffy, flavorful side that perfectly balances the spiciness of the tacos, adding a comforting element to your meal.
- Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with fresh herbs and lime livens up the plate, bringing a bright contrast to the savory tacos.
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is the perfect dip that adds a luscious texture while complementing the vibrant flavors of the tacos.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty addition, boosting the protein content and offering an inviting side kick to your meal.
Consider pairing these tacos with a chilled, refreshing drink to wash it all down. Something light and zesty, like a sparkling agua fresca, can invigorate your taste experience!
- Margaritas: A classic choice, the tangy and sweet flavors of a margarita enhance the Mexican theme while balancing the spicy taste of the tacos.
- Limeade: Freshly squeezed limeade offers a refreshing, citrusy lift that complements the bold flavors of the tacos beautifully.
Each dish adds its own unique flair, creating a full-fledged fiesta right at your dinner table!
Expert Tips for Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos
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Marination Time: Longer marination (up to 24 hours) allows the chicken to absorb flavors deeply, enhancing the overall taste of your tacos.
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Grilling Technique: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high for perfectly cooked chicken. A hot grill helps achieve those lovely grill marks!
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Resting Period: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy in your tacos.
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Tortilla Warm-Up: Warm your tortillas before assembly. This prevents tearing and enhances flavor, making each bite of your authentic Mexican chicken street tacos enjoyable.
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Veggie Crunch: Consider using a variety of fresh toppings. Balance the dish by incorporating crunchy vegetables and creamy elements like avocado to elevate flavor and texture.
Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos Variations
Customize your tacos for a personal touch that makes each bite even more delightful!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for a colorful mix of grilled peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a satisfying veggie option. The smoky flavor of the grilled veggies adds a delicious twist.
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Spicy Shrimp: Use shrimp instead of chicken, marinated in the same zesty lime mixture. A quick grill brings out the shrimp’s sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile for seafood lovers.
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Pork Perfection: Substitute with marinated pork tenderloin, sliced after grilling for a delicious change. The sweet and savory essence of pork provides a unique taste that pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings.
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Creamy Avocado: Add sliced or mashed avocado to each taco for extra creaminess. This not only enhances flavor but also adds healthy fats, making your tacos even more satisfying.
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Double Tortillas: Use two tortillas per taco for a sturdier base. This ensures each taco can hold all the toppings without falling apart, making for a mess-free meal.
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Flavorful Rice Bowls: Transform the ingredients into a delicious rice bowl. Layer grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and crema over a bed of cilantro-lime rice for a hearty alternative.
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Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, incorporate diced habanero or a few drops of hot sauce into your crema. This addition brings a fiery flavor that spice enthusiasts will adore!
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Herb Twist: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try fresh parsley or mint in the topping mix. Each herb offers a distinct flavor, allowing you to personalize your tacos while keeping them fresh and flavorful.
Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for these tacos?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy when grilled. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute them with boneless skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may require less cooking time to avoid drying out.
How should I store leftover tacos?
You can keep any leftover cooked tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain their freshness, store the ingredients separately if possible, especially the tortillas, to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Very! Freezing is a great way to preserve marinated chicken. Simply place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling for the best results.
What if my tortillas tear when assembling?
Not a problem! If your tortillas are tearing, it may be because they are too cold or not warmed enough. Try warming them on a skillet or in the microwave for just a few seconds to increase flexibility. This will help prevent tearing during assembly!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! For gluten-free diners, simply use corn tortillas instead of flour. If anyone has a cilantro allergy or dislikes the flavor, you can easily substitute fresh cilantro with parsley for a similar freshness without the taste of cilantro.
Can I customize the toppings for these tacos?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add other toppings such as sliced avocado, crumbled cheese, or different salsas to suit your taste preference. The beauty of these Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos lies in their versatility, allowing you to create variations that cater to everyone’s liking.
Authentic Mexican Chicken Street Tacos Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and chicken taco seasoning. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
- Set your grill to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will give the chicken beautiful grill marks and enhance its flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 4-6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juiciness.
- Grill or microwave the corn or flour tortillas until warm and flexible.
- Place sliced grilled chicken on the warmed tortillas. Top with chopped romaine lettuce, red onion, jalapeño, fresh cilantro, and drizzle with cilantro lime crema. Serve with lime wedges.
