Description

These street-style chicken tacos are loaded with bold seasoning, topped with fresh limey guacamole, and finished with tangy crumbled cheese for a fast, shareable meal that tastes like a celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)

2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lime juice

2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil

2 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp chili powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 ripe avocados

2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lime juice (for guacamole, plus more to taste)

1/4 cup (40 g) finely diced red onion

1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

1/3 cup (10 g) chopped fresh cilantro

1/2 tsp kosher salt (for guacamole)

12 small corn tortillas

3/4 cup (90 g) crumbled queso fresco (or cotija)

1 cup (150 g) diced tomato (optional)

2 cups (60 g) shredded cabbage or shredded lettuce (optional)

Lime wedges, for serving

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp (30 ml) lime juice, 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Toss with chicken to coat. Marinate 20–30 minutes if possible.

Make guacamole: Mash avocados and stir in 2 tbsp (30 ml) lime juice, red onion, jalapeño (optional), cilantro, and 1/2 tsp salt. Adjust to taste.

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until browned and cooked through to 165°F (74°C). Rest 5 minutes, then chop.

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet 20–30 seconds per side. Keep covered in a towel.

Assemble: Add chicken to tortillas, top with guacamole, sprinkle with crumbled cheese, and add tomato/cabbage if using. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breast works well if you avoid overcooking.

For make-ahead: cook chicken up to 2 days in advance; make guacamole close to serving time.

To prevent tortilla tearing, warm thoroughly and consider doubling tortillas for each taco.

Craveworthy Mexican Chicken Street Tacos with Fresh Guacamole and Crumbled Cheese

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes