Chicken Street Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Street Tacos are a beloved staple of Mexican street food, offering bold, savory flavors in a small, handheld package. These tacos are made with seasoned grilled chicken, served in warm corn tortillas, and topped with fresh garnishes like cilantro, onion, and lime. They’re perfect for quick weeknight dinners, parties, or casual gatherings—packed with flavor and endlessly customizable.

ingredients

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

chicken thighs or breastsolive oillime juicegarlic powderchili powderground cuminpaprikaonionscilantrocorn tortillassalt and pepperoptional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream

directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl.

Add olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken. Mix well to coat evenly.

Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side until pliable.

Assemble the tacos by placing the cooked chicken in the tortillas.

Top with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add any additional toppings you like.

Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10-12 tacos.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutesCooking time: 8 minutesTotal time: 48 minutes

Variations

Use flour tortillas if preferred over corn.

Swap chicken for grilled steak, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options.

Add pickled onions or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Include shredded cabbage or lettuce for added crunch.

Top with crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Store tortillas separately and warm just before serving.

FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for street tacos?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but breasts work well too.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.

Are corn tortillas necessary?

They’re traditional for street tacos, but you can use flour tortillas if desired.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and cook the chicken in advance, then reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely, grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the tacos.

Are these tacos spicy?

They have mild heat, but you can adjust the chili powder or add hot sauce to taste.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

How do I keep tortillas from breaking?

Warm them before assembling to make them more pliable.

Can I make this low-carb?

Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb version.

What goes best with chicken street tacos?

Refried beans, Mexican rice, or elote (Mexican street corn) are great sides.

Conclusion

Chicken Street Tacos are a quick, flavorful, and fun meal that brings authentic Mexican street food right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and endless topping options, these tacos are sure to satisfy both casual eaters and food lovers alike. Give them a try—you’ll want to make them part of your regular meal rotation.

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