Texas-Style Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe That Will Take Your Taco Nights to the Next Level

Grilled chicken tacos are a classic favorite, but what if we told you there’s a way to make them even better? Straight from the heart of Texas, this grilled chicken taco recipe is packed with bold flavors, juicy chicken, and a tangy kick of lime. Imagine a warm evening with the sizzle of chicken on the grill, the smell of smoky spices filling the air, and friends gathered around waiting for the first bite. This is the magic of Texas-style grilled chicken tacos!

Photo byNick Davies

In this recipe, we combine Texas' love for grilling with the bright and fresh flavors that make tacos so irresistible. The marinade for the chicken is key, with a blend of smoky paprika, cumin, and chili powder, balanced by the tang of fresh lime juice. Add in a crunchy slaw, avocado, and a touch of cilantro, and you've got a taco that’s hard to beat. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or just making dinner at home, these tacos will be the highlight of your meal.

Here’s how to make these flavorful grilled chicken tacos:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• Lime wedges for serving

Optional toppings:

• Salsa verde
• Hot sauce
• Sour cream
• Crumbled queso fresco

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, making sure each piece is coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Prepare the Toppings: While the chicken is resting, prepare your toppings. Slice the avocado, chop the cilantro, and thinly slice the red onion. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until they are soft and lightly charred.
4. Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, place a few slices of grilled chicken on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage or slaw, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Add any optional toppings like salsa verde, hot sauce, or queso fresco. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

Enjoying Your Texas Grilled Chicken Tacos

Now that your Texas-style grilled chicken tacos are ready, it’s time to dig in. The combination of smoky grilled chicken, the crunch of fresh toppings, and the bright zing of lime makes every bite an explosion of flavor. These tacos are perfect for a family dinner, casual gathering, or even just a quick weeknight meal that feels special.

If you're looking for even more Texas flair, pair these tacos with a side of charro beans, Mexican rice, or grilled street corn. And don’t forget to serve them with your favorite cold beverage to complete the meal.

Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out! Follow me for more recipes that bring big flavors to your kitchen.

Sources:

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos - grillonadime.com

Grilled Chicken Street Tacos- Simple and Easy recipe! (houseofyumm.com)

Grilled Chicken Tacos - Easy Grilled Street Tacos (eatingonadime.com)