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Unlock the Secret to the Perfect Easy Chicken Street Tacos Recipe

Easy Chicken Street Tacos Recipe (Ready in 30 Min!)

These Chicken Street Tacos are quick, easy, and full of authentic Mexican flavor. Juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, tucked into warm corn tortillas, and topped with fresh onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a fun taco night with friends, this recipe is simple to prep and endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.

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:

  • 812 small corn tortillas (street taco size)

  • ½ cup white onion, finely chopped

  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Lime wedges

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, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. 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 marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden with slight char.

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

  4. Warm the Tortillas:
    While the chicken rests, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20–30 seconds per side, until pliable and lightly toasted.

  5. Assemble the Tacos:
    Fill each tortilla with chicken, top with chopped onion and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. Add optional toppings if desired.

Notes

  • Marinate longer: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

  • Crispier edges: Grill the chicken instead of using a skillet for smoky, slightly charred edges.

  • Tortilla tip: Warm tortillas in a dry pan or wrap in foil and heat in the oven to keep them soft.

  • Make it healthier: Use chicken breast instead of thighs, or add extra veggies like grilled peppers and onions.

Nutrition

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