Grilled Chicken Street Tacos

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Who doesn't love a delicious street taco? The combination of tender grilled chicken, fresh toppings, and a warm tortilla is simply unbeatable.

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Grilled Chicken Street Tacos
Prep
20 min
Total
40 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lime juice, oil, paprika, cornstarch, oregano, cumin, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Whisk the ingredients together until well mixed.

  2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss it in the marinade until evenly coated.

  3. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. Alternatively, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for up to 4 hours.

  4. Preheat the grill for medium-high heat and let it preheat for 5 minutes. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil.

  5. In a small food processor, combine sour cream, cilantro, minced garlic, lime zest, lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Pulse the ingredients together until they are combined and the cilantro is finely chopped. Alternatively, finely chop the cilantro and whisk it together with the remaining crema ingredients.

  6. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it, turning it once, until it is cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F. This should take approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.

  7. While the chicken is resting, grill the tortillas, turning them halfway through, until they are charred in spots and pliable

About this recipe

Who doesn't love a delicious street taco? The combination of tender grilled chicken, fresh toppings, and a warm tortilla is simply unbeatable. In this article, we'll explore the art of making grilled chicken street tacos and share some tips and tricks to make them even more flavorful. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a tasty meal, these tacos are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to making grilled chicken street tacos, selecting the right cut of chicken is crucial. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the perfect choice as they are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. Marinating the chicken beforehand will further enhance its taste and tenderness. You can opt for a traditional Mexican marinade with lime juice, garlic, and spices, or get creative and experiment with your own flavors.

Grilling to Perfection

The secret to mouthwatering grilled chicken street tacos lies in the grilling process. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips, allowing the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.

Building the Perfect Taco

Now that you have perfectly grilled chicken, it's time to assemble the tacos. Start with warm corn tortillas, which add an authentic touch to your street tacos. Place a generous portion of the grilled chicken on each tortilla and top it with your favorite toppings. Traditional options include diced onions, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. For some extra heat, add sliced jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce. Don't forget to serve the tacos with a side of salsa and guacamole for dipping.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken street tacos are a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas. With the right chicken, grilling techniques, and creative toppings, you can create a memorable meal that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico. So, fire up the grill, gather your favorite ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of homemade street tacos.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used, they tend to be drier than thighs. If using chicken breasts, be sure to marinate them to add flavor and moisture.

. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have more time, marinating it overnight will yield even better results.

. Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Absolutely! If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or a stovetop grill to achieve similar results.

. What are some alternative toppings for street tacos?

Get creative with your toppings! Some popular options include diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced avocados, or pickled onions.

. Are street tacos gluten-free?

Yes, street tacos made with corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of any store-bought sauces or seasonings for any hidden gluten ingredients.

. Can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables or your favorite plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian option.

. How can I make the tacos spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapenos, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the grilled chicken.

. Can I make the tacos ahead of time?

While it's best to assemble the tacos just before serving, you can prepare the grilled chicken and toppings ahead of time and store them separately. This way, you can simply heat up the chicken and assemble the tacos when you're ready to enjoy them.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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