Chicken Street Tacos: A Flavorful Delight for Everyone

Name: Chicken Street Tacos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3 tbsp fresh lime juice ((about 2 limes)); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 8-12 small corn tortillas ((street taco-style)); ½ cup finely chopped white onion; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; lime wedges ((for serving)); optional toppings ((cotija cheese, avocado slices, salsa verde, pickled red onions))

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Chicken street tacos are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. These delicious bites are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Plus, they’re healthy and kid-approved, making them a must-try right now!

Ingredients for Chicken Street Tacos

Essential Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
8-12 small corn tortillas (street taco-style)
½ cup finely chopped white onion
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges (for serving)

Optional Toppings

Cotija cheese
Avocado slices
Salsa verde
Pickled red onions

How to Make Chicken Street Tacos at Home

Marinating the Chicken

Start by combining lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

Next, preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe eating. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or dicing into small pieces.

Preparing the Tortillas

While the chicken rests, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20–30 seconds on each side. This step softens them and adds a lovely texture.

Assembling the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with the cooked chicken, then add a sprinkle of chopped onion and cilantro. Serve the tacos with lime wedges and your choice of optional toppings for extra flavor.

Delicious chicken street tacos loaded with toppings.

Best Toppings for Chicken Street Tacos

Classic Toppings

For a traditional touch, stick with cilantro and onions. These classic toppings enhance the fresh flavor of the chicken, creating a delightful balance.

Creative Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding cotija cheese or avocado slices. These ingredients bring creaminess and richness, enhancing each bite. Salsa verde adds a zesty kick that’s simply irresistible!

What to Serve with Chicken Street Tacos

Side Dishes

Chicken street tacos pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing easy taco soup or some street corn chicken rice bowl for a complete meal.

Beverage Pairings

For beverages, a crisp margarita or a cold beer complements the savory flavors perfectly. Alternatively, a refreshing agua fresca is always a great choice!

Tips for Meal Prep and Leftovers

Marinating in Advance

For easy meal prep, marinate the chicken ahead of time. You can also freeze it in the marinade for quick meals later. This makes dinner a breeze!

Storing Cooked Chicken

The cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor.

Using Leftovers in Other Dishes

Leftover chicken is versatile! Use it in taco salads, burritos, quesadillas, or rice bowls. The flavor remains delicious, no matter how you enjoy it.

FAQs

How long do chicken tacos keep in the fridge?

Chicken tacos can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

What goes well with chicken street tacos?

Chicken street tacos pair well with easy taco soup, street corn, or a refreshing salad.

How are you supposed to eat street tacos?

Street tacos are typically eaten with your hands, allowing you to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures.

Conclusion

These chicken street tacos are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to enjoy vibrant flavors in your home. For more inspiration, check out ideas on Pinterest. Whether you prepare them for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, they’re always a hit!