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An extreme close-up of a single authentic chicken street taco, showcasing the juicy marinated chicken, diced white onion, and vibrant green cilantro.

Chicken Street Tacos: The Only Recipe You'll Ever Need

This Chicken Street Tacos recipe delivers authentic, fresh-from-the-truck flavor right in your kitchen! Featuring a quick and powerful chicken marinade, fresh cilantro, and diced onions, these tacos are the perfect easy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1/2-inch bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 12 small corn tortillas street taco size
  • 1/2 cup white onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2 limes cut into wedges for serving

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Tongs

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until every piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
  3. Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan in a single layer.
  4. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. Remove from pan.
  5. Warm the corn tortillas one by one in a dry skillet, over a gas flame, or in the microwave until soft and pliable.
  6. Assemble the tacos by placing a portion of the cooked chicken on each warm tortilla. Top with a sprinkle of diced onion and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Pro Tip: For the best flavor, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they stay more tender and juicy than chicken breasts.
Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.