Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos – Recipes From Chef

Before embarking on this culinary journey, let’s chat about what to pair with these flavorful tacos. A refreshing drink is a must. Consider a classic margarita or a cool glass of horchata. Both can perfectly balance the spices in the chicken. Fresh salsa can elevate your taco game. 

Try a zesty pico de gallo for crunch or a smooth mango salsa for a sweet twist. A side of chips adds that delightful crunch factor that everyone loves. Finally, don't forget the guacamole — it’s a creamy counterpart that pairs beautifully with the chicken and avocado.

Why This Recipe Works?

Let’s dive into why this grilled chicken and avocado street tacos recipe stands out. Here are four key reasons:

1. Flavorful Marinade
The marinade transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. With spices like ground cumin and smoky ancho chili powder, each bite delivers warmth and depth.

2. Fresh Ingredients
Using ripe avocados and freshly chopped cilantro enhances the taste. Fresh ingredients don’t just improve flavor; they also contribute to a more nutritious meal.

3. Simple Preparation
This recipe is uncomplicated. The preparation is quick, making it accessible for weeknight dinners. You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, and yet the results are restaurant-worthy.

4. Versatility
These tacos are adaptable. You can personalize them based on your preferences. Want to add a bit more heat? Go ahead! Prefer another cheese? No problem. The options are endless.

How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a taco where the grilled chicken has a slight char, giving a smoky flavor that mingles perfectly with the creamy avocado. The cilantro provides a burst of freshness, while the queso fresco introduces a delightful saltiness. 

When you squeeze a lime wedge over the top, everything comes together in a blend of vibrancy and richness. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth. Each bite is a delightful contrast of textures, with the soft tortilla cradling the tender chicken and creamy avocado. You simply can’t go wrong.

What Sets This Recipe Apart?

What differentiates this recipe from other grilled chicken and avocado tacos? The marinade. Most recipes use simple seasoning, but this one creates a depth of flavor that lingers long after the last bite. Plus, the addition of smoky paprika adds a unique twist that you won't find in every variation. 

The choice of toppings is also crucial here. The crumbled queso fresco adds the right amount of creaminess, while the fresh onions bring a crunchy texture that keeps things interesting.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delicious tacos:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoky ancho chili powder
  
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  

For Serving:

• 1 large ripe avocado, sliced
  
• 3 tablespoons freshly chopped cilantro
  
• 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
  
• 12 mini corn tortillas (warm them up!)
  
• 1 small red or yellow onion, finely chopped
  
• Lime wedges for squeezing over the top
  

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing the marinade in a bowl. Combine the ground cumin, salt, black pepper, chopped cilantro, olive oil, ancho chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and smashed garlic. This fragrant mix will elevate the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Take the chicken thighs and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage it to ensure all pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, a few hours or overnight works wonders.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off the excess. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

While the chicken is resting, warm your corn tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute on each side. Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Now it’s time to assemble. Start with a piece of chicken, a few slices of avocado, some chopped onions, and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco. Top it off with a bit more cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out perfect:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. They enhance the taste significantly.
  
• If you don’t like spicy, you can reduce the amount of ancho chili powder or choose a milder seasoning.
  
• Double the chicken if cooking for a crowd. Leftovers make for great meal prep.
  
• Store leftover tortillas wrapped in a towel to keep them warm and pliable.
  
• Squeeze lime juice right before eating to maintain freshness and vibrancy.
  

Nutrition Information

These tacos are not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the avocado, and essential nutrients from the fresh cilantro and vegetables. Here's an overview:

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on toppings and quantities utilized)
  
• Protein: 25-30 grams
  
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
  
• Fat: 20 grams (healthy fats from avocado and olive oil)
  
• Fiber: 5 grams
  

How Do You Store This Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos Recipe?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the ingredients separate, especially if you plan to reheat them. The chicken can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. When reheating, gently warm the chicken and tortillas, then assemble your taco to maintain the best textures.

Sides for Grilled Chicken and Avocado Street Tacos Recipe

Now let’s spice up your taco night with some side dish ideas that pair perfectly with these tacos.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
This dish takes sweet corn and elevates it with lime, chili powder, crema, and crumbly cheese. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and adds a fun crunch to your meal.

2. Black Bean and Quinoa Salad
Packed with protein and fiber, this salad features black beans, quinoa, and fresh veggies. Toss it with a lime dressing, and you’ve got a side dish that complements your tacos flawlessly.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice
Fluffy rice with a hint of lime and cilantro makes for a simple yet tasty side. This dish is also great for soaking up any leftover taco juices, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes, life throws you a curveball, and you might not have every ingredient on hand. Here are some alternatives worth considering:

1. Chicken Thighs to Chicken Breasts
If you prefer a leaner cut, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Just remember they might require a shorter cooking time.

2. Queso Fresco to Feta Cheese
If you can’t find queso fresco, crumbled feta cheese is a fantastic substitute. It will add a slightly different flavor but still offers that creamy texture.

3. Corn Tortillas to Flour Tortillas
Flour tortillas can be used in place of corn tortillas if that’s what’s available. Just note that corn tortillas provide a more authentic feel.

4. Fresh Cilantro to Parsley
If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley offers a milder taste that can still brighten up your tacos.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken and avocado street tacos offer a delightful way to celebrate flavors and textures that are both simple and satisfying. This recipe combines the joy of easy cooking with mouthwatering results. 

Whether you’re gathering around the grill with friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these tacos promise to bring joy to your table. So, why wait? Fire up that grill and treat yourself to a taco feast that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico! Enjoy every bite.

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