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Easy Chicken Street Tacos Recipe (Authentic, Juicy & Weeknight-Friendly)

Easy Chicken Street Tacos Recipe (Authentic, Juicy & Weeknight-Friendly)
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These Chicken Street Tacos are simple, flavorful, and perfect for bringing authentic street-style Mexican flavors right to your kitchen. Juicy marinated chicken is cooked until lightly charred, then tucked into warm corn tortillas and finished with fresh onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. They’re easy enough for weeknight dinners and always a hit for taco night with friends.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 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

For Serving

  • 8–12 small corn tortillas (street taco size)

  • ½ cup white onion, finely chopped

  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Lime wedges, for serving

Optional Toppings

  • Cotija cheese

  • Avocado slices

  • Salsa verde

  • Pickled red onions

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden, slightly charred, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

3. Rest and Slice

Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice or dice into small, bite-sized pieces.

4. Warm the Tortillas

Warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20–30 seconds per side, until soft and lightly toasted.

5. Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with chicken, then top with chopped onion and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and your favorite optional toppings.

Notes

  • Don’t skip resting: Letting the chicken rest keeps it tender and juicy.

  • Char = flavor: A little bit of char from the grill or skillet adds authentic street-style taste.

  • Corn tortillas only: For true street tacos, corn tortillas work best.

  • Make ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time.

Find it online: https://biteseason.com/easy-chicken-street-tacos-recipe-authentic-juicy-weeknight-friendly/