Barbecue Chicken Taco Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals
A summer evening, the grill is sizzling, and the scent of barbecue fills the air. Friends have gathered, and laughter dances around.
What’s on the menu?
Barbecue chicken tacos, of course! This dish captivates the senses and promises a flavor explosion worth sharing. It’s easy to prepare, fun to eat, and remarkably versatile.
Allow me to walk you through what makes barbecue chicken tacos such a hit at any gathering. With the right preparation and sides, it becomes an irresistible centerpiece.
What are Barbecue Chicken Tacos?
Barbecue chicken tacos are a playful take on classic Mexican cuisine with a smoky American twist. They feature tender, shredded chicken tossed in rich barbecue sauce, served inside warm tortillas.
Toppings like creamy avocado, spicy jalapeños, and zesty cilantro add depth. Ultimately, it's comfort food that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe shines because it combines unique flavors with simplicity. The chicken marinates in barbecue sauce, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Tortillas, filled with well-balanced toppings, create a delightful mouthfeel. Plus, this dish is approachable.
Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned pro, it’s hard to go wrong with barbecue chicken tacos.
What You'll Need to Make This Dish?
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) of sweet corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) of black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red or yellow) for extra crunch and sweetness
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 12 small corn or soft flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 2/3 cup of tangy barbecue sauce, divided
- Creamy cilantro-lime dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey
How to Make Barbecue Chicken Tacos?
Making barbecue chicken tacos is straightforward. Follow these steps for a successful, mouthwatering outcome.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken. I recommend using boneless skinless thighs; they’re flavorful and juicy. Coat them in about half of your barbecue sauce. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, cover it and pop it in the fridge for a few hours.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grill or bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness when shredded.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily. Mix in the remaining barbecue sauce for added flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas
While the chicken cools a bit, warm your tortillas. You can do this on the grill for that perfect char or simply in a heated skillet for a minute per side.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Start by placing a generous amount of shredded chicken on a warm tortilla. Top it with corn, beans, diced bell peppers, jalapeños, and any other toppings you fancy. Drizzle with the creamy cilantro-lime dressing and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your barbecue chicken tacos are ready to be devoured! Pair with your favorite sides, and let the fiesta begin.
Tips:
- Marinate Longer: If possible, let the chicken marinate longer for a more intense flavor.
- Tortilla Choice: Try both corn and flour tortillas to see which you prefer; they can alter the flavor and texture.
- Ingredient Swap: Feel free to play with toppings. Use lime wedges for extra zing!
- Keep It Simple: For a quick meal, consider using rotisserie chicken. It'll save time while still being delicious.
- Health Upgrade: Opt for low-sugar barbecue sauce to make it a healthier option.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave until heated through before assembling your tacos again.
How Would I Recommend Serving Barbecue Chicken Tacos?
Serving is just as important as preparing. Here are four suggestions:
- Family Style: Lay out all the fixings on a large platter. Everyone can create their personalized tacos. It doubles as a fun activity.
- Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar. Include various toppings, sauces, and sides. Let guests mix and match. This encourages creativity!
- Game Day Treats: Serve these tacos during game nights. They are perfect finger food and ideal for casual dining.
- Meals on the Go: When prepping for a busy week, make these tacos as a meal prep option. They hold up well, packed separately.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
Finding the right ingredients can be tricky. Here are some alternatives:
- Chicken Substitute: Use turkey or tofu for a protein switch. Each brings a unique flavor profile.
- Bean Options: If beans aren’t on hand, lentils can work well. They’re highly nutritious and char nicely.
- Bell Peppers: Zucchini or cucumbers can provide crunch if you don’t have bell peppers available.
- Barbecue Sauce Replacement: Make a quick homemade sauce with tomatoes, vinegar, and spices if store-bought is unavailable.
Conclusion
Barbecue chicken tacos are more than just a recipe; they're an experience. From the first bite of smoky chicken to the fresh crunch of toppings, each flavor enhances the other.
Whether at a gathering or a quiet weekday meal, these tacos promise satisfaction with every bite. Best of all, they invite creativity. This dish provides an opportunity to explore your culinary preferences. So, fire up your grill and get cooking!
Enjoy the delicious flavors and the company of loved ones as you indulge in this fantastic taco journey.
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When serving barbecue chicken tacos, the right sides can transform a delicious meal into an unforgettable one.
Here are some classic and complementary pairings: Cool coleslaw, with its creamy texture and tangy crunch, perfectly balances the smoky flavors of the barbecue chicken. Guacamole and chips add a rich, creamy layer that beautifully complements the tacos’ boldness.
Mexican street corn (Elote) is a cookout favorite, offering a sweet, spicy, and lime-infused contrast that pairs wonderfully with the tacos. A fresh black bean salad brings a zesty kick, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Finally, pineapple salsa adds a tropical sweetness that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce, giving the meal a refreshing twist.
- 1 can of sweet corn, drained (15 oz)
- 1 can of black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz)
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper for extra crunch and sweetness (red or yellow)
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 12 small corn or soft flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 2/3 cup of tangy barbecue sauce, divided
- Creamy cilantro-lime dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Start by seasoning the chicken. I recommend using boneless skinless thighs; they’re flavorful and juicy. Coat them in about half of your barbecue sauce. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, cover it and pop it in the fridge for a few hours.
- Grill or bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness when shredded.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily. Mix in the remaining barbecue sauce for added flavor and moisture.
- While the chicken cools a bit, warm your tortillas. You can do this on the grill for that perfect char or simply in a heated skillet for a minute per side.
- Start by placing a generous amount of shredded chicken on a warm tortilla. Top it with corn, beans, diced bell peppers, jalapeños, and any other toppings you fancy. Drizzle with the creamy cilantro-lime dressing and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- Your barbecue chicken tacos are ready to be devoured! Pair with your favorite sides, and let the fiesta begin.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 675kcal
- Calories from Fat 115kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13.7g22%
- Saturated Fat 2.6g13%
- Cholesterol 4mg2%
- Sodium 1231mg52%
- Total Carbohydrate 136g46%
- Dietary Fiber 16g64%
- Sugars 59g
- Protein 15g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Marinate Longer: If possible, let the chicken marinate longer for a more intense flavor.
- Tortilla Choice: Try both corn and flour tortillas to see which you prefer; they can alter the flavor and texture.
- Ingredient Swap: Feel free to play with toppings. Use lime wedges for extra zing!
- Keep It Simple: For a quick meal, consider using rotisserie chicken. It'll save time while still being delicious.
- Health Upgrade: Opt for low-sugar barbecue sauce to make it a healthier option.
I'm Rachel Garland, a registered dietitian and passionate home cook from Fairfield, California. My goal is to help busy people create quick, flavorful, and nutritious meals that fit into their hectic lives. Through my blog, I share simple, delicious recipes that make healthy eating easy and enjoyable!