Chicken Street Tacos
These Chicken Street Tacos are flavorful, simple, and inspired by authentic Mexican street food. Tender, marinated chicken is tucked into warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh cilantro, onion, and lime for a perfect handheld bite. Ideal for taco night or entertaining!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- ½ cup white onion finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 avocado diced or sliced (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional toppings: salsa cotija cheese, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices.
- Add chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat corn tortillas in a dry skillet for 20–30 seconds per side until warm and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Fill each tortilla with a scoop of chicken.
- Top with diced onion, cilantro, avocado, and your favorite toppings.
- Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness and flavor, but breasts work too.
- Want smoky flavor? Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying.
- Make it spicy by adding chipotle powder or chopped jalapeños to the marinade.
- Serve with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or elote (Mexican street corn).
- Great for meal prep—just store the chicken and tortillas separately!