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Chicken Street Tacos

Chicken Street Tacos

Chicken Street Tacos feature juicy, marinated chicken wrapped in soft corn tortillas, garnished with fresh onions, cilantro, and radishes. Bursting with bright lime, warm spices, and authentic street food flavors, these tacos are quick to prepare, easily customizable, and perfect for sharing at any casual meal or festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive oil)
  • 12 small corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup diced onions (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup sliced radishes
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Variations & Toppings

  • Sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to taste
  • Grilled portobello mushrooms or seasoned tofu (vegetarian swap)
  • Avocado crema or salsa verde
  • Crumbled cotija or queso fresco cheese
  • Grilled pineapple chunks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and oil. Mix well to create a vibrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with zesty and warm flavors.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Fully coat the chicken pieces with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, rest the chicken briefly, then chop into small, bite-sized pieces.
  4. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas on a dry skillet or over a gas flame until they become soft and slightly charred. This adds a smoky flavor and makes them pliable for filling.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Spoon the juicy chicken onto each tortilla and top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and radish slices. Finish each taco with a squeeze of lime for a perfect tangy balance.

Notes

  • Marinate longer if possible, ideally overnight, to deepen the flavors.
  • Use traditional corn tortillas for authentic texture and taste.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest before chopping to retain juiciness.
  • Slightly char tortillas to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Add fresh toppings just before serving to keep crunch and brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken street tacos, Mexican tacos, grilled chicken tacos, gluten-free tacos, easy weeknight dinner