Description
This easy and flavorful grilled chicken tacos recipe features tender marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection, served with warm tortillas and fresh toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal that serves 4.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Main
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Tortillas (corn or flour, as desired)
Toppings (optional)
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Cheese (such as shredded cheddar or queso fresco)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the granulated sugar, white vinegar, vegetable oil, ground cumin, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a balanced flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts inside a gallon-sized plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag tightly, and massage the marinade into the chicken to evenly coat. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 3 hours to maximize flavor absorption.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, ensuring the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill over medium heat, flipping occasionally to cook evenly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 10–15 minutes depending on thickness).
- Rest and slice: Take the grilled chicken off the heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute. Then, slice the chicken into thin strips suitable for tacos.
- Warm the tortillas: Warm your tortillas in a skillet or on the grill until soft and pliable. Fill each tortilla with sliced grilled chicken and your choice of toppings such as salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
- Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with complementary sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete, delightful meal experience.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour but no more than 3 hours to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Ensure the grill grates are well-oiled to prevent chicken from sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
- Feel free to customize toppings based on preference and dietary needs.
- Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
