Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you’re staring at the clock, wondering how to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos! These tacos are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavor and simplicity. With tender chicken thighs coated in smoky barbecue sauce, they’re sure to impress your family or friends. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes! Trust me, this recipe is your new go-to for quick dinners or casual gatherings. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos
These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos are a game-changer for any home cook. They’re incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of smoky barbecue sauce and tender chicken thighs creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste, making them perfect for picky eaters or adventurous foodies alike!
Ingredients for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos
Let’s gather our ingredients for these mouthwatering Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos! Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, making them ideal for grilling. You can swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
Olive oil: A splash of this helps the spices stick to the chicken and adds a touch of richness.
Garlic powder: This brings a savory depth to the dish without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic.
Onion powder: A great way to add sweetness and flavor without the tears!
Smoked paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor that complements the barbecue sauce perfectly.
Ground cumin: A warm spice that adds an earthy note to the chicken.
Chili powder: For a hint of heat and a touch of color.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your tacos.
Barbecue sauce: Choose a smoky variety for that authentic taste. You can also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Tortillas: Small corn or flour tortillas are perfect for wrapping up all that delicious filling.
Shredded lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch to your tacos.
Diced tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant, they brighten up the dish.
Diced red onion: For a bit of sharpness and color.
Queso fresco or shredded cheese: This creamy element ties everything together beautifully.
Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb adds a burst of freshness.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime elevates the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
For those who like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice mixture is where the magic begins! Toss in the boneless, skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they’re evenly coated. The spices will cling to the chicken, infusing it with flavor as it cooks. Trust me, this step sets the stage for delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos!
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Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Now, it’s time to fire up the grill or grill pan! Preheat it over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken thighs on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature hits 165°F. This ensures juicy, tender chicken that’s perfect for your tacos. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes overcooked chicken!
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
After grilling, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Once rested, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It’s a satisfying process, and you’ll be amazed at how tender it is!
Step 4: Combine with Barbecue Sauce
In a saucepan, heat your smoky barbecue sauce over low heat until it’s warmed through. Then, add the shredded chicken to the sauce, stirring to combine. This step is where the flavors meld together, creating a deliciously sticky mixture that will coat your tacos perfectly. The aroma will have your mouth watering!
Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
To enhance the texture of your tacos, warm the tortillas. You can do this on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them pliable and ready to hold all that delicious filling. A warm tortilla is the perfect canvas for your barbecue chicken!
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Now comes the fun part—assembling your tacos! Take a warm tortilla and place a generous portion of the barbecue chicken mixture in the center. Top it off with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled queso fresco. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that burst of flavor! Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.
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Tips for Success
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Experiment with different barbecue sauces for unique tastes.
Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for a few seconds for extra flavor.
Don’t overload the tacos; keep it balanced for easy eating!
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for that smoky flavor. A stovetop grill pan works just as well.
Large Bowl: For mixing the chicken and spices. Any mixing bowl will do!
Meat Thermometer: To check chicken doneness. A simple knife can also help.
Two Forks: Perfect for shredding the chicken. You can use your hands if you prefer!
Saucepan: For warming the barbecue sauce. A small pot will work just fine.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or jackfruit for a delicious plant-based taco.
BBQ Sauce Swap: Experiment with different barbecue sauces, like honey mustard or teriyaki, for a unique twist.
Low-Carb Version: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme with the spice blend for added flavor complexity.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair your tacos with Mexican street corn or a fresh avocado salad for a delightful contrast.
Drinks: Serve with a cold cerveza or a refreshing limeade to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange tacos on a colorful platter, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro for a vibrant look.
FAQs about Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for these tacos?
Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of chicken thighs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster.
What type of barbecue sauce is best for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos?
I recommend using a smoky barbecue sauce to enhance the flavor of the chicken. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties, like sweet or spicy, to find your perfect match!
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and barbecue sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, warm them up and assemble your tacos for a quick meal.
What toppings can I add to my tacos?
The sky’s the limit! Besides the basics like lettuce and tomatoes, consider adding avocado, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of sour cream for extra creaminess. Customize them to your heart’s content!
Are these tacos gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use corn tortillas, these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos are gluten-free. Just double-check the labels on your barbecue sauce to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
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Final Thoughts
Making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments. The aroma of grilled chicken mingling with smoky barbecue sauce fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the customizable toppings let you express your culinary creativity. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos bring joy and satisfaction. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that grill, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits. Trust me, once you try these tacos, they’ll become a staple in your home!
Delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Tacos made with tender chicken thighs, smoky barbecue sauce, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably a smoky variety)
8 small corn or flour tortillas
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
In a saucepan, heat the barbecue sauce over low heat until warmed through. Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.
Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
To assemble the tacos, place a generous portion of the barbecue chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, queso fresco, and fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
Substitute the chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
