Easy Chicken Street Tacos Recipe

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken for grilling (seasoned)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 8 corn tortillas

Directions

1. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
2. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink in the center, about 7 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches at least 165F (74C) in the center.
3. While the chicken is grilling, heat the corn tortillas in the microwave for about 1 minute, until they are soft and pliable.
4. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and slice it into thin strips.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing the grilled chicken on each tortilla, then top with diced onions and chopped cilantro.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	165
Total Fat	5g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	50mg
Sodium	60mg
Total Carbohydrate	12g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	18g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	31mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	207mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of the Dish

The origins of street tacos can be traced to the vibrant streets of Mexico, where food is often prepared and served quickly for people on the go. Tacos have been a central part of Mexican cuisine for centuries, with early forms of the dish appearing in the Aztec civilization, where they were likely made using a variety of local ingredients like fish, beans, and corn. Over time, the taco evolved to include various fillings such as beef, chicken, and pork, adapting to regional flavors and availability of ingredients. Today, the concept of "street tacos" represents the traditional, simple, and flavorful versions of this beloved dish, often served on small corn tortillas and topped with fresh ingredients like onions and cilantro.

Regional Variations

In Mexico, tacos vary significantly by region, with each area offering its unique twist on the taco. For example, in the northern parts of Mexico, tacos de carne asada (grilled beef tacos) are highly popular, while in the southern regions, tacos al pastor (tacos with marinated pork) dominate. Chicken tacos, such as the one featured in this recipe, are common throughout the country but especially in central and coastal regions, where grilling chicken is a favorite method of preparation. The seasoning and toppings can vary depending on the area, with some regions using spicier salsas or specific herbs.

How This Recipe Differs from Similar Dishes

This Easy Chicken Street Tacos recipe stands out due to its simplicity and quick preparation time. Unlike more complex taco dishes that may require slow-cooking or marinating, this recipe uses pre-seasoned chicken (pollo para asar), which is ready to grill, making it ideal for a fast and tasty meal. Additionally, the recipe calls for minimal ingredientsjust chicken, onions, cilantro, and corn tortillascreating a light and fresh version of a taco that emphasizes the natural flavor of the chicken. The use of corn tortillas rather than flour gives it a more authentic street taco experience, typical of traditional Mexican street food.

Where Are Chicken Street Tacos Typically Served?

Chicken street tacos are commonly found in street-side stalls, food trucks, and small family-run taco stands throughout Mexico, especially in urban centers like Mexico City. They are also widely served at Mexican restaurants in the U.S. and other countries, particularly in areas with large Latino populations. The beauty of this dish lies in its casual nature; it is often enjoyed by locals during a quick lunch or as a late-night snack. Whether served at a bustling street market or in the comfort of home, chicken street tacos bring people together over a shared love for delicious, hand-held food.

Fun Facts

• The taco is such a staple in Mexican cuisine that there is an entire museum dedicated to it in Mexico City, known as the "Museo del Taco."
• In Mexico, tacos are often eaten with a variety of salsas ranging from mild to very spicy, with some even incorporating exotic ingredients like grasshoppers or worms for an adventurous twist.
• The term "street taco" isn't officially recognized in Mexico, but it is widely used in the U.S. to describe tacos served from small food carts or stands in an informal setting.
• The smaller size of street tacos allows for easy customization, and it is not uncommon to see people ordering multiple varieties at once to sample different fillings and toppings.

Recipe Overview

To make these easy chicken street tacos, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless chicken, grilled and diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
• 8 corn tortillas

Instructions

1. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
2. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink at the center, about 7 minutes. An instant-read thermometer, inserted near the center, should read at least 165F (74C).
3. Heat the corn tortillas in the microwave until soft and pliable, about 1 minute. Top each tortilla with chicken, onions, and cilantro.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving of these delicious chicken street tacos provides:

• Calories: 165
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fiber: 2g

FAQ about Easy Chicken Street Tacos Recipe

Comments