Get ready to elevate your taco night with a recipe that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor and is incredibly simple to make. Imagine tender, juicy grilled chicken, perfectly seasoned and chopped, nestled in a warm tortilla with zesty cilantro-lime rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This recipe is your shortcut to amazing street-style tacos that feel special enough for guests but are quick enough for any busy weeknight. You won’t believe how easily this delicious meal comes together!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 50 mins (includes 30 mins marinating time)
Servings: 4 (makes 8-10 tacos)
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Lime Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, or breasts
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large lime, juice and zest of
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Tacos & Cilantro-Lime Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 lime, juice of
- 8–10 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice and zest, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Rice: While the chicken marinates, cook the rice according to package directions using water or chicken broth. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro and the juice of one lime. Keep covered and warm.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or large skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C) and nicely charred.
- Rest and Chop: Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy! After resting, chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas for about 15-30 seconds per side on the hot grill, in a dry skillet, or carefully over a low gas flame until they are soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, spoon a layer of the cilantro-lime rice into each warm tortilla. Top generously with the chopped grilled chicken, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and diced red onion.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Recipe Notes:
- Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs will result in juicier, more flavorful tacos, but chicken breasts are a great leaner option. Adjust cook time as needed, as breasts can cook faster.
- No Grill? No Problem: You can easily cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. You’ll still get a fantastic sear.
- Warming Tortillas is a Must: Don’t skip this step! Warming the tortillas makes them more flavorful, soft, and durable, preventing them from splitting when you fold them.
- Get Creative with Toppings: These tacos are a perfect base for your favorite toppings! Try adding cotija cheese, sliced avocado, pico de gallo, salsa verde, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Meal Prep Tip: To save time, you can marinate the chicken and make the cilantro-lime rice a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook and assemble.
There you have it—an incredibly fresh, flavorful, and simple chicken taco recipe that will instantly become a family favorite. This is the perfect meal for a fun, hands-on dinner that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per 2 tacos)
Calories: 520; Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 4g); Carbohydrates: 48g; Sugar: 2g; Protein: 40g; Sodium: 680mg; Fiber: 4g;
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
