Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Charred Chile Marinated Grilled Chicken Tacos are a flavorful and smoky twist on your traditional taco. The marinade, made with charred chiles, imparts a rich and spicy flavor to the chicken, while grilling adds a delicious smoky note. Wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients, these tacos offer the perfect balance of heat, tang, and crunch. A must-try for taco lovers and spice enthusiasts!

ingredients

Chicken breasts or thighs
Ancho chile peppers
Pasilla chile peppers
Garlic
Lime juice
Olive oil
Oregano
Cumin
Salt
Black pepper
Corn or flour tortillas
Fresh cilantro
Diced onions
Sliced radishes
Sour cream or crema
Lime wedges

directions

Roast the ancho and pasilla chiles in a dry pan over medium heat until they begin to char and puff up, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, and once cooled, remove the seeds and stems.
In a blender, combine the roasted chiles, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and charred.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Warm the tortillas on the grill for 1-2 minutes until soft and slightly charred.
Assemble the tacos by placing sliced chicken on each tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, sliced radishes, and a drizzle of sour cream or crema. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Grilling time: 10-14 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add grilled corn or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
For a spicier version, add extra chile peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
Use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer texture over corn tortillas.
Swap sour cream for a tangy queso fresco or cotija cheese for a different twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through. Tacos are best eaten fresh, but the chicken can be used for other dishes like salads or wraps.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chiles for the marinade?
Yes, you can experiment with different chiles, such as chipotle for a smokier flavor or jalapeño for extra heat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful for grilling.

Are these tacos spicy?
The heat is moderate due to the chiles, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Charred Chile Marinated Grilled Chicken Tacos offer a perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and fresh flavors. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend taco night, these tacos are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold flavors. The charred chile marinade gives the chicken a unique depth, while the toppings bring a fresh crunch to each bite. Enjoy!