If you’re searching for a fresh twist on taco night, these grilled chicken and avocado street tacos with mango salsa are a must-try. The combination of juicy, marinated chicken, creamy avocado, and vibrant mango salsa wrapped in a warm tortilla is simply irresistible. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, these tacos bring a burst of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Steps
- Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable bag. In a separate bowl, mix together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin chili powder, cilantro, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag, seal it, and remove any excess air. Rub the marinade into the chicken and refrigerate it for a minimum of one hour, up to six hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 425 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked, ensuring the thickest part reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a plate, cover it with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Dice the chicken into small cubes.
- Assemble the tacos by placing the diced chicken onto warmed tortillas. Add slices of avocado, diced onions, and chopped cilantro.
- Serve the tacos warm, adding a squeeze of lime juice and a drizzle of hot sauce to taste. Enjoy with your choice of additional toppings like guacamole for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Corn tortillas, warmed
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- Additional cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Hot sauce, for drizzling
Nutritional Values
Calories 1852 | Calories from Fat 756 | Fat 84g | Saturated Fat 12g | Cholesterol 644mg | Sodium 768mg | Potassium 3200mg | Carbohydrates 128g | Fiber 24g | Sugar 8g | Protein 148g | Vitamin A 1520IU | Vitamin C 48mg | Calcium 336mg | Iron 12mg
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for the street tacos?
- Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for thighs. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If you use breasts, ensure they are cooked just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent drying out.
- Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for a specific time?
- It’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least one hour to allow the flavors to fully penetrate. You can marinate for up to six hours for even more flavor.
- Can the chicken be cooked in the oven instead of grilling?
- Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the chicken on a sheet pan for about 30 minutes, or until it is cooked through and has crispy edges.
- What are some alternative toppings I can use for the tacos?
- Besides the traditional toppings like onion, cilantro, and lime, you can add diced tomatoes, salsa, shredded lettuce, various Mexican cheeses, crema, guacamole, grilled corn, sliced jalapenos, or sautéed bell peppers.
- What can I serve alongside these street tacos?
- Street tacos pair well with sides such as black beans, refried beans, or Mexican rice to complete the meal.
Tips
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour to ensure it absorbs the full depth of flavors from the marinade.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result, as thighs tend to brown and char better on the grill.
- Grill the chicken over high heat to achieve a nice char and crispy edges, enhancing the overall taste of the tacos.
- If adding numerous toppings, consider using larger tortillas instead of street-sized ones to accommodate the extras without spilling.
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for grilling the marinated chicken and achieving the charred effect.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Useful for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked to 165 degrees.
- Gallon Size Resealable Bags: Needed for marinating the chicken in the refrigerator.
- Citrus Juicer: Handy for extracting lime juice for the marinade.
- Tongs or Spatula: For turning the chicken on the grill.
