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Juicy chicken street tacos in charred corn tortillas topped with white onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese

Chicken Street Tacos

Juicy marinated chicken thighs cooked until charred and served in warm corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, white onion, lime, and your favorite toppings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinate Time 30 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp lime juice fresh squeezed preferred
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 10 soft corn tortillas
  • 0.5 cup chopped white onion
  • 0.5 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 4 lime wedges
  • 1 sliced avocado or guacamole optional
  • 0.25 cup crumbled cotija cheese optional
  • 0.25 cup pickled red onions optional
  • 0.25 cup salsa verde optional

Equipment

  • Grill or cast iron skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator for best flavor.
  2. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs 5 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F.
  3. Remove chicken from heat and let rest 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips or small bite-sized pieces against the grain.
  4. Heat corn tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet or over a gas flame for 20 to 30 seconds per side until warm and slightly charred.
  5. Layer sliced chicken into each warm tortilla. Top with white onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Add optional toppings as desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness but breasts work in a pinch. Marinating overnight yields the best flavor. Store leftover chicken separately from toppings for up to 3 days in the fridge. Great for meal prep.