Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos
One of the best taco recipes out there! Chicken thighs are soaked in a bright well seasoned marinade and grilled to perfection (youll be fighting over those little charred crispy pieces). Theyre so flavorful and so easy to make. I frequently serve these tacos to guests and they always get compliments!
One of the best taco recipes out there! Chicken thighs are soaked in a bright well seasoned marinade and grilled to perfection (youll be fighting over those little charred crispy pieces). Theyre so flavorful and so easy to make. I frequently serve these tacos to guests and they always get compliments!
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 3 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 1/2 lbs trimmed boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 cloves garlic (peeled and smashed)
- 1 1/4 tsp ancho chili powder
- 12 mini corn taco shells warmed ((double up if desired))
- 1 large avocado * (cored and sliced)
- 1 small red or yellow onion (chopped)
- lime wedges (for serving (optional))
- Carbohydrate 7.63967075056465 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 11.1709301290752 g
- Fiber 4.07194240342726 g
- Protein 1.72883424999058 g
- Saturated Fat 1.57878596304897 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (249g)
- Sodium 598.819349987048 mg
- Sugar 3.56772834713739 g
- Trans Fat 0.633809725088089 g
- Calories 127 calories
Step-by-step
- Add chicken to a gallon size resealable bag.
- In a small bowl whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin chili powder, cilantro, 1 tsp salt and 3/4 tsp pepper.
- Pour mixture over chicken in bag then seal bag while releasing any trapped air.
- Rub marinade over chicken.
- Transfer to refrigerator and allow to marinate at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.
- Preheat a grill over medium-high heat (it should come to 425 - 450 degrees).
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill until chicken has cooked through, turning once halfway through grilling, about 5 - 6 minutes per side (thickest center should register 165 and thighs should be slightly charred).
- Transfer to a plate, cover with foil and let rest 5 minutes.
- Dice grilled chicken into cubes.
- Sprinkle chicken over 1 or 2 tortillas per taco then add an avocado slice, diced chicken, onions and cilantro.
- Serve warm, spritzing each taco with lime juice and drizzling with hot sauce.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a real challenge. But let me tell you, these Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos are my absolute lifesaver. They're quick, easy, and packed with flavor – a winning combination on any busy weeknight. The best part? Even my picky eaters devour them!
The marinade is the key to these tacos. It's a vibrant blend of lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and cilantro – a flavor explosion that perfectly complements the tender grilled chicken. I usually marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but if I have time, I'll let it soak overnight for even more intense flavor. The grilling process adds a beautiful char to the chicken, creating those irresistible crispy bits that everyone fights over. Don't worry if you don't have a grill; you can easily pan-fry or bake the chicken instead, although the grill adds that extra smoky deliciousness.
Once the chicken is cooked and resting, the assembly is a breeze. I warm up my mini corn tortillas (I love the little ones because they're perfect for portion control!), then I pile on the diced grilled chicken, creamy avocado slices, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce are the final touches that elevate these tacos to the next level.
These tacos are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different toppings! I've added shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese in the past. They also make a fantastic appetizer for parties, or even a fun lunch for a picnic in the park. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Recipe: A Taste of Simplicity
For me, this recipe isn't just about the delicious food; it's about the feeling of accomplishment. It's the joy of creating something flavorful and satisfying from simple ingredients. It’s a small victory in the midst of a busy day. It’s about creating a memorable meal for my family, one that sparks conversation and laughter around our dinner table.
This recipe is a reminder that even in the midst of a chaotic life, there's always time for simple pleasures. It's a testament to the power of good food and good company. And that, to me, is something truly precious.
Tips and Tricks for Taco Perfection:
- Don't skip the marinade! It's what makes these tacos so flavorful.
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. The quality of your ingredients will impact the overall taste.
- Don't overcrowd the grill. Give the chicken enough space to cook evenly.
- Let the chicken rest before dicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Get creative with your toppings! Experiment with different cheeses, salsas, and vegetables.
Beyond the Plate: A Simple Act of Love
Cooking, for me, is more than just preparing a meal; it's an act of love. It’s a way to show my family and friends how much I care. It’s a small gesture of love that brings people together. And in the case of these tacos, it’s a simple act that brings a whole lot of joy.
So the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner, give these Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos a try. You won't be disappointed!
