What are the best tacos? Simple, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Chicken Street Tacos are my take on those cherished memories, but with a little twist to make them. They are perfect for a busy weeknight. They’re quick and easy, and they pack a punch of flavor. Think of them as the cooler, more laid-back cousin of your average chicken fajitas. What are some good taco recipes to make every Taco Tuesday? What is the key to a good marinade? What makes a chicken sing? I have never had so much fun using spices and the aroma it gives to the chicken as it cooks, makes my taste buds happy. Why does my mouth water?

What is chicken street tacos?

What is Mexican street tacos like? Is it essentially tender, flavorful chicken, usually marinated in a vibrant mix of spices and citrus? What are the best ways to eat tortillas? These aren’t your typical burritos. What are hand-held tacos? The name “street tacos” comes from the fact that these are often sold by street vendors in Mexico – they are usually made of cheese. Quick, affordable, and incredibly delicious. Typically, you’ll find them topped with simple ingredients like chopped onion, cilantro, and a little bit of cheese. What is a squeeze of lime? No need for all the bells and whistles. How do tortillas and chicken work together?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What I love most about these Chicken Street Tacos is how incredibly versatile and easy they are. What’s the breakdown?

Flavor Explosion:Where the magic happens is in the marinade. What is a blend of chipotle, zesty lime, fragrant garlic, and smoky chips? What makes your taste buds sing? What is the flavor of chicken?
Seriously simple: IsWhat are some of the best recipes to make? What is the best marinade for a quick cook time? What is a lifesaver on busy weeknights?
Budget FriendlyChicken thighs are usually pretty affordable, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. How do I feed a crowd without breaking the bank?
Totally CustomizWhat’s a good substitute for chipotle powder? What are some of the best spices to add to a dish? If you don’t have chicken, you can sub steak. What is the best way to watch cooking time?
What are leftovers?What are some of the best ways to serve chicken on its own, over rice, or in a salad? Can you freeze the marinade to use later on other things, or use it to cook your veggies?

If you’re a fan of simple, flavorful dishes like this one, then I recommend you try it.Spicy Shrimp Tacos: or Easy CarnitasIf you like chicken street tacos, then these are the ones for you. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!

How do I make chicken street tacos?

Quick Overview

What are some of the best taco recipes? What is the best marinade for chicken? Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or even better, overnight!). If you’re grilling a chicken, pan-fry it until it’s cooked through and slightly charred. While the chicken is cooking, warm up your tortillas. What’s the best part about putting chicken on tortillas? How can I make a whole thing in under an hour? What is the smell of chicken cooking?

Ingredients

What is the recipe for chicken marinade?

5 lbs boneless, skinless Chicken Thighs (I prefer thigh because they stay juicy, but chicken is a good meat). Do breasts work?
2 tbsp olive oil. 1
2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed) is best!
How much apple cider vinegar should I use? 1 tbs
1 tbsp minced garlic (about 2 cloves) – 1 clove.
1 tbsp chipotle powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano.
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat) – 1/4 cup.
Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Tacos:

Corn or flour tortillas (street taco size – about 4-5 inches)
1/2 cup chopped white onion.
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
What are lime wedges?
What is your favorite hot sauce?

What are the steps in

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, chipotle, and salt. Set aside. Is it safe to use cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper? Add the Chicken Thighs to a bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be! I always try to prep this in the morning so it is ready for me when I start making dinner in a hurry.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

How do you heat a grill pan over medium heat? Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard it. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and slightly charred. If you want an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is what you’re looking for.

Step 3: Shred or Chop the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. How do you shred a potato into small pieces? I prefer shredding because it allows the chicken to soak up even more of the delicious juices.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While the chicken is resting, warm the tortillas. If you are cooking in a dry skillet over medium heat, you can do this in the microwave (wrapped in paper towel). If you’re cooking on a gas stovetop flame, or directly over the flame for charred flavor, use it instead.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

If you have shredded chicken, top each tortilla with a little cheese. Top with the remaining chicken. Top with chopped white onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately with your favorite hot sauce, if desired.

What is the best way to serve it?

What are some good ways to make Chicken Street Tacos? What are some good ideas for a meal?

Mexican Rice: A classic side dish that complements the flavors of the tacos perfectly.
Black Beans: A simple and healthy side that adds some extra protein and fiber to your meal.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob, slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. A truly irresistible treat!
Guacamole and Chips: Because who can resist guacamole?
Mexican Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad with lettuce, tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing.
Micheladas: If you are old enough, a refreshing Mexican beer cocktail with lime juice, hot sauce, and spices.

My family loves when I serve these with a big bowl of guacamole and some homemade tortilla chips. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a casual, fun, and delicious meal together.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Street Tacos

Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for making the *best* Chicken Street Tacos:

Don’t Skip the Marinade: The marinade is what gives the chicken its incredible flavor, so don’t skip it! The longer it marinates, the better.
Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier than chicken breasts, making them the perfect choice for these tacos. If you do use chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough, so be sure to cook it just until it’s cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is what you’re looking for.
Warm Your Tortillas: Warm tortillas are softer and more pliable, making them easier to fold and eat.
Don’t Overfill the Tacos: Overfilling the tacos will make them messy and difficult to eat. A little goes a long way!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will always give you the best flavor. Use fresh lime juice, cilantro, and onion for the most authentic taste.
Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Some other great options include shredded cabbage, pickled onions, crumbled cotija cheese, and a drizzle of crema.
Adjust the Heat: If you like things spicy, add more chipotle powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also serve the tacos with your favorite hot sauce.
Don’t Be Afraid to Char the Chicken: A little char on the chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor.
Serve Immediately: These tacos are best served immediately, while the chicken is still hot and juicy and the tortillas are warm and pliable.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover chicken, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, you can microwave the chicken, but it’s best to reheat it in a skillet over medium heat to retain its juiciness.

Store the tortillas in a plastic bag at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in a dry skillet, in the microwave (wrapped in a damp paper towel), or directly over a gas stovetop flame.

Room Temperature: Keep the tacos at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Make sure to cover them to prevent them from drying out.

Refrigerator Storage: Place the leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Store the tortillas separately in a plastic bag.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the tortillas tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw the chicken and tortillas in the refrigerator before reheating.

Topping Considerations: It’s best to store the toppings separately to prevent them from becoming soggy. Store chopped onions, cilantro, and other toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they tend to be drier than chicken thighs. If using chicken breasts, be sure not to overcook them. You can also use chicken tenderloins, which cook very quickly.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled or pan-fried tofu, black beans, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

What if I don’t have chipotle powder?

If you don’t have chipotle powder, you can substitute it with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar smoky and slightly spicy flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply warm the chicken and tortillas and assemble the tacos.

What kind of tortillas should I use?

I prefer to use small corn tortillas for authentic street tacos, but you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. Look for tortillas that are specifically labeled as “street taco size” for the best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Chicken Street Tacos a try! They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and they’re so easy to make. The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken and simple, fresh toppings is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re a great way to bring a little bit of Mexican street food culture into your own home. If you love these, be sure to check out my other taco recipes for even more inspiration!

Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. I’d love to see your own variations, so be sure to share them on social media too!