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A close-up view of two chicken street tacos, highlighting the juicy, seasoned chicken and fresh toppings on a corn tortilla.

Chicken Street Tacos (The Easiest, Most Authentic Recipe)

This easy Chicken Street Tacos recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken in a flavorful marinade. Learn how to make the best authentic street tacos at home in under 30 minutes for the perfect weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into small, bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 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

Instructions
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and toss to coat completely. Allow to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and nicely browned.
  3. While the chicken is cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate dry skillet for 30-60 seconds per side until soft and pliable.
  4. To build your tacos, double up the tortillas, fill with the cooked chicken, and top with a sprinkle of diced onion and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Use Chicken Thighs: For the juiciest, most flavorful tacos, chicken thighs are the best choice.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it gets a nice brown sear instead of steaming.
Warm Your Tortillas: This step is crucial! It makes them flexible and prevents them from breaking when you fold them.
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