BBQ Chicken Tacos
BBQ chicken tacos are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings joy to any meal. Perfect for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or even a fun weeknight dish, these tacos are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll explore why you should make BBQ chicken tacos, how to prepare them, and some tips for elevating your taco experience.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of BBQ chicken tacos. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. The smoky, savory flavor of BBQ chicken paired with fresh veggies creates a harmonious balance that tantalizes your taste buds. Additionally, making tacos from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a healthier meal for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re aiming for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend feast, BBQ chicken tacos fit the bill.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Tacos
Creating delicious BBQ chicken tacos at home is both simple and rewarding. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll be serving up a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small-medium avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
- Optional toppings: lime juice, sliced jalapeños
Directions
-
Make your spice mixture by mixing garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
-
Season chicken thighs with the spice mixture. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes or until fully cooked through. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pan with BBQ sauce, warming through.
-
In a medium bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, yogurt, vinegar, cilantro, salt, and pepper to make coleslaw. Toss until well mixed, adjusting seasonings to taste.
-
Optional: Warm the tortillas over a gas stove or in a skillet for 15-30 seconds on each side. Keep the tortillas warm by wrapping them in a kitchen towel.
-
Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with shredded cabbage, shredded chicken, cheese, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
-
Top with additional toppings as desired and serve.
Pro Tips for Success BBQ Chicken Tacos
-
Use Quality Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They remain moist while cooking and absorb the BBQ sauce beautifully.
-
Marinate for More Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture and a bit of BBQ sauce for a couple of hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This simple step enhances the flavor significantly.
-
Coleslaw Crunch: The coleslaw adds a great crunch. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or radishes to keep things interesting.
-
Warm Tortillas: Warming the tortillas adds flexibility and improves their taste. A dry skillet works well for this; just heat them for about 15 seconds on each side.
-
Presentation Matters: Garnish your tacos with a sprinkle of cilantro or a drizzle of lime juice. A pretty presentation adds to the meal’s enjoyment.
Flavor Variations BBQ Chicken Tacos
-
Spicy BBQ: If you love a fiery kick, consider using a spicy BBQ sauce or adding diced jalapeños directly to the chicken mixture for an extra layer of heat.
-
Tropics Twist: Add diced pineapple or mango to the coleslaw for a fresh, fruity touch that balances the BBQ flavors beautifully.
-
Smoky Adventures: Incorporate chipotle in adobo sauce into the BBQ for a deeper, richer smoky flavor profile.
-
Vegetarian Option: Swap out chicken for grilled vegetables or a plant-based protein to create a delicious vegetarian taco that’s just as filling.
-
Herbaceous Layers: Experiment with fresh herbs. Adding basil or mint to the coleslaw can introduce a surprising burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions BBQ Chicken Tacos
BBQ chicken tacos can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them with a side of Mexican street corn for a true fiesta vibe, or pair them with fresh guacamole and tortilla chips. A refreshing salad or some simple black beans can complete the meal without overpowering the main event. Consider crafting a fun taco bar with an array of toppings, allowing everyone to build their personalized creations.
Storage and Freezing Instructions BBQ Chicken Tacos
If you happen to have leftover BBQ chicken or coleslaw, you can store them separately. Place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The coleslaw will stay fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days, but you may want to add the dressing only right before serving to maintain its crunch.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat before serving. Note that tortillas are best fresh, so it is recommended to make them on the day of serving for optimal enjoyment.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sodium: 650mg
FAQ About BBQ Chicken Tacos
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option but can be used in place of chicken thighs. Just ensure you don’t overcook them, as they tend to dry out more quickly.
Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Yes! To make BBQ chicken tacos gluten-free, simply use corn tortillas, which are naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels of your BBQ sauce and any other condiments for hidden gluten sources.
Is it possible to prepare the chicken in advance?
Definitely! You can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance. Simply reheat it in a pan with some BBQ sauce when you’re ready to assemble the tacos. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
How can I make the coleslaw creamier?
For creamier coleslaw, you can add more Greek yogurt or a dollop of mayonnaise to the mixture. Adjust to your taste preference, and feel free to add some spices like cumin or black pepper to enhance the flavor.
What are some alternative toppings for BBQ chicken tacos?
Toppings are limitless! Try adding sliced radishes, fresh jalapeños, or crumbled feta cheese for a unique twist. You can also serve your tacos with a side of salsa or pico de gallo for an extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken tacos are not only delicious but also an enjoyable dish for gatherings and family meals. The combination of smoky chicken, fresh crisp vegetables, and your favorite toppings makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients and get ready to serve up some delightful BBQ chicken tacos tonight!
Print
BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
BBQ chicken tacos are a delightful combination of smoky chicken, fresh vegetables, and customizable toppings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small-medium avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
- Optional toppings: lime juice, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Make your spice mixture by mixing garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Season chicken thighs with the spice mixture. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes or until fully cooked through. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the pan with BBQ sauce, warming through.
- Combine cabbage, carrots, yogurt, vinegar, cilantro, salt, and pepper to make coleslaw in a medium bowl. Toss until well mixed, adjusting seasonings to taste.
- Warm the tortillas over a gas stove or in a skillet for 15-30 seconds on each side. Keep the tortillas warm by wrapping them in a kitchen towel.
- Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with shredded cabbage, shredded chicken, cheese, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- Top with additional toppings as desired and serve.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture and BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight. Opt for quality chicken thighs for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
