Chipotle-Citrus Marinated Chicken Tacos Recipe

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 limes, juiced
• 1 orange, juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 24 corn tortillas, street taco size
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Directions

Step 1: Combine lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, chipotle pepper, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper in a blender. Blend on high until smooth.

Step 2: Pour the marinade mixture into a resealable plastic bag. Add chicken breasts to the bag, seal, and marinate in the refrigerator for 3 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the grill to 375F (190C). Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill, close the lid, and discard the marinade.

Step 4: Grill the chicken, turning once, for 6 to 8 minutes per side, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165F (74C).

Step 5: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 6: Heat the tortillas over a griddle on medium heat until soft and pliable. Stack the tortillas in pairs.

Step 7: Divide the sliced chicken, diced onion, and chopped cilantro evenly between the tortillas.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	854
Total Fat	24g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	96mg
Sodium	772mg
Total Carbohydrate	121g
Dietary Fiber	19g
Total Sugars	31g
Protein	48g
Vitamin C	202mg
Calcium	301mg
Iron	5mg
Potassium	1255mg

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

Description: These chipotle-citrus marinated chicken tacos are bursting with flavor! The chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of lime, orange, chipotle, and spices, then grilled to perfection. Served in soft corn tortillas and topped with fresh diced onion and cilantro, these tacos are a delicious fusion of smoky heat and refreshing citrus.

History of Origin

The origins of tacos are deeply rooted in Mexican history, with the taco being a traditional food dating back to pre-Columbian times. While the exact origins of the "chipotle-citrus" flavor combination are not definitively known, it draws from the Mexican culinary tradition of pairing chili peppers with citrus fruits. Chipotle peppers, which are smoke-dried jalapeos, have long been used in Mexican cuisine to impart a smoky, spicy flavor. The combination with citrus fruits, such as lime and orange, balances the heat with refreshing acidity, creating a harmonious taste thats loved by many. This dish likely originated in the modern fusion movement, which blends traditional Mexican ingredients with contemporary cooking techniques.

Regional Variations

Tacos themselves have various regional variations across Mexico. The chipotle-citrus combination, however, is particularly popular in regions where smoky flavors and the use of citrus are prevalent, such as in central and southern Mexico. The concept of marinating chicken with spices and citrus before grilling is not unique to one specific area, but the smoky chipotle pepper adds a distinct regional flair. In places like Veracruz and Oaxaca, grilled meats and citrus-based marinades are common, though chipotle peppers specifically may vary in usage based on local preferences and availability of ingredients.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While tacos in general are a staple in Mexican cuisine, the Chipotle-Citrus Marinated Chicken Tacos stand out because of their unique marinade. Unlike traditional chicken tacos, which may be seasoned with simple salt and pepper or used with grilled or fried chicken without a marinade, this dish incorporates a smoky-spicy chipotle flavor combined with the tangy sweetness of citrus. This particular marinade method adds a depth of flavor that sets it apart from other chicken taco recipes. Many chicken tacos are filled with grilled or roasted meat, but the citrus-marinated chicken provides a tender, juicy bite with an added kick from the chipotle pepper, creating a more complex flavor profile than other taco fillings.

Where Are These Tacos Typically Served?

Chipotle-Citrus Marinated Chicken Tacos are a popular choice in many Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants, especially those focused on fresh, flavorful, and grilled meats. They can often be found in modern Mexican bistros or taco trucks that emphasize innovative takes on traditional tacos. These tacos are also a favorite in casual dining settings, where the fresh, light flavors make them a perfect option for lunch or dinner. Whether enjoyed at a street food vendor in Mexico or a fusion restaurant in urban areas, these tacos bring a refreshing twist to the classic taco experience.

Interesting Facts

• The word "taco" comes from the Mexican Spanish word for "plug" or "wad," which originally referred to the use of a rolled-up piece of paper or cloth used to plug holes in mining operations.
• The chipotle pepper, a smoked jalapeo, is often used in Mexican cuisine to add both heat and a smoky flavor to dishes. The process of drying and smoking the peppers was originally used as a preservation method, but today, it enhances the flavor of countless dishes.
• Citrus fruits like limes and oranges have long been a staple in Mexican cooking, with the lime, in particular, being used to balance the heat in spicy dishes. The acidity in citrus fruits helps tenderize the meat while enhancing its flavor.
• The combination of smoky chipotle and tangy citrus is a favorite pairing in modern Mexican cuisine, representing a fusion of both traditional and contemporary flavors.

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