Dinner

Chicken Street Tacos Recipe You’ll Ever Need (Authentic & Easy!) Recipe

Name: Chicken Street Tacos Recipe You’ll Ever Need (Authentic & Easy!) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1/2 cup diced onion; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges for serving

ByJulian Dempsey February 8, 2026February 8, 2026

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Introduction

These Chicken Street Tacos are a simple, flavorful meal that brings the authentic taste of Mexico right into your kitchen. Ready in just 30 minutes, they make a perfect casual dinner or snack for any occasion.

The image shows two tacos on a white marbled surface, each with two yellow corn tortillas folded and filled with three layers. The bottom layer is grilled chicken with a dark, slightly charred texture. On top of the chicken is a bright green sauce, smooth and slightly chunky. The top layer consists of finely chopped red onions, fresh cilantro, and small pieces of white onion, adding a mix of purple, green, and white colors. Part of a lime wedge is visible at the edge of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
Step 2: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and nicely charred.
Step 4: Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Warm the corn tortillas on the skillet or directly over a flame until they become soft and pliable.
Step 6: Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with chopped chicken, diced onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, consider using a grill instead of a skillet.
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
Add a bit of diced jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce for some heat.
Serve with sliced avocado or a simple salsa for more texture and flavor.

Storage

Store cooked chicken and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave and wrap tortillas in foil, heating them in the oven or on a skillet until pliable.

How to Serve

The image shows two soft corn tortillas filled with grilled chicken pieces that have a slightly charred, dark brown crust. On top of the chicken, there is a layer of green salsa made from finely chopped herbs and green peppers, and sprinkled with small pieces of red onion and white onion for added texture and color. The tacos sit on a white plate, and a slice of lime is partially visible to the side. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they tend to be leaner and may cook faster, so watch the timing to avoid drying out the meat.

How do I keep tortillas warm and soft?

Wrap warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel or foil to keep them soft and warm until serving. Heating them just before assembling the tacos helps maintain their pliability.