Grilled Chicken Tacos

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken:
  • 🐓 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 🌿 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🍋 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 🌮 1 tsp chili powder
  • 🌿 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
  • 🌶️ 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Tacos:
  • 🌮 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 🥬 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 🍅 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 🧅 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 🥑 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 🌿 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 🧀 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or shredded cheese of choice)
  • 🍋 Lime wedges, for serving

🍳 Instructions

Marinate the Chicken
  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    • Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for extra flavor).
Grill the Chicken
  1. Preheat the Grill:
    • Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  3. Rest and Slice:
    • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
Assemble the Tacos
  1. Warm the Tortillas:
    • Heat the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds per side until warm and pliable.
  2. Fill the Tacos:
    • Layer each tortilla with shredded lettuce, grilled chicken slices, diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
  3. Garnish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle with cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for extra zest.

💡 Tips and Variations

  • 🌶️ Add Heat: Top with pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for spice lovers.
  • 🥭 Sweet Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple salsa for a fresh, tropical flavor.
  • 🧄 Extra Flavor: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or garlic-lime crema for creaminess.
  • 🥬 Low-Carb Option: Replace tortillas with lettuce wraps for a lighter meal.

🍹 Serving Suggestions

Pair these Grilled Chicken Tacos with Mexican rice, black beans, or a side of corn salsa. For drinks, try a refreshing glass of lime agua fresca or a classic margarita.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Grilled Chicken Tacos are packed with smoky, zesty flavors and fresh toppings, making them a perfect combination of simplicity and taste. Quick to prepare and customizable, they’re great for weeknight dinners, taco nights, or family gatherings.

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