Name: Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For Chicken:; 14 oz chicken breast cutlets; 1¼ tsp seasoned salt; 1 tsp olive oil; 1 tsp lime juice; For Tacos:; 4 oz romaine lettuce; ½ cup vine ripe tomato; ¼ cup cilantro; ¼ cup red onion; 1 tsp olive oil; 2 tsp lime juice; ¼ tsp kosher salt; pinch fresh black pepper; 8 corn tortillas; 4 tbsp cotija cheese; 5 oz avocado; radishes; 4 lime wedges

Grilled chicken tacos with lettuce slaw are a delicious and fresh way to enjoy a classic dish. Perfect for a summer meal, these tacos are loaded with vibrant flavors and textures. From the seasoned and grilled chicken to the crisp lettuce slaw and creamy avocado, every bite is a burst of taste.

Photos of Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Recipe

When heading to the supermarket for this recipe, be aware that cotija cheese, avocado, and radishes might be ingredients you don't typically have at home. Cotija cheese is a crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty flavor to the tacos. Ensure you pick ripe avocados for the best creamy texture, and fresh radishes to add a nice crunchy bite.

Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Tacos With Lettuce Slaw

Chicken breast cutlets: Thinly sliced cuts of chicken that cook quickly and evenly on the grill.

Seasoned salt: A blend of salt and other spices to enhance the flavor of the chicken.

Olive oil: Used to marinate the chicken and dress the slaw; adds a rich, smooth flavor.

Lime juice: Adds a zesty and fresh taste to both the chicken marinade and the slaw.

Romaine lettuce: Provides a crispy and refreshing base for the slaw.

Vine ripe tomato: Adds juiciness and a touch of sweetness to the slaw.

Cilantro: Fresh herb that brings a bright and citrusy note to the dish.

Red onion: Adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the slaw.

Kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Fresh black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the slaw.

Corn tortillas: Serve as the vessel for the tacos; slightly charred for added flavor.

Cotija cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese that adds a salty and tangy element.

Avocado: Adds creaminess and richness to the tacos.

Radishes: Provide a crunchy texture and a peppery flavor.

Lime wedges: Served on the side to add an extra burst of citrus flavor.

One reader, Ker Chance says:

These grilled chicken tacos with lettuce slaw are fantastic! The flavors are fresh and vibrant, and the grilled chicken is perfectly seasoned. The cotija cheese and avocado add a delightful creaminess. A must-try for taco lovers!

Ker Chance

Mastering the Art of Grilling Chicken for Tacos

How to marinate chicken: Combine the chicken with seasoned salt, olive oil, and lime juice, then let it sit for at least 1 hour to absorb the flavors. How to grill chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, oil the grates, and cook the chicken for about 2 minutes on one side and 1 minute on the other, or until fully cooked. How to slice chicken: After grilling, place the chicken on a cutting board and slice it into thin strips. How to mix lettuce slaw: In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomato, cilantro, onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper, and mix well. How to heat tortillas: Place the tortillas on the grill and heat for about 1½ minutes on each side until slightly charred. How to assemble tacos: Layer the grilled chicken, lettuce slaw, avocado, cotija cheese, and radishes on the heated tortillas. Serve with lime wedges.

How To Make Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw

These colorful, easy-to-make grilled chicken tacos, are filled with a flavorful mix of juicy grilled chicken, crunchy lettuce slaw, and salty Cotija cheese!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Marinate Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

14ozchicken breast cutlets,(4 thin cutlets), sliced, boneless
1¼tspseasoned salt,like Lawry’s Fire Roasted Chili & Garlic
1tspolive oil
1tsplime juice

For Tacos:

4ozromaine lettuce,(2½ cups), shredded
½cupvine ripe tomato,(1 medium), chopped
¼cupcilantro,loose, chopped
¼cupred onion,thinly sliced
1tspolive oil
2tsplime juice
¼tspkosher salt
pinchfresh black pepper
8corn tortillas
4tbspcotija cheese,crumbled
5ozavocado,sliced
radishes,thinly sliced, to garnish, optional
4lime wedges,for serving

Instructions

Season the chicken with seasoned salt, olive oil, and lime juice, and marinate for at least 1 hour.
Heat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan on medium-high heat.
Oil the grates, then grill the chicken for about 2 minutes. Turn and cook an additional 1 minute, or until cooked through.
Set aside on a cutting board and slice into thin strips.
In a large work bowl, mix the lettuce, tomato, cilantro, onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Heat the tortillas on the grill for about 1½ minutes on each side, turning until it is slightly charred.

To Assemble:

Add the chicken, lettuce, avocado, and top with cotija cheese and radishes.
Serve with lime wedges, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 397.21kcal
Fat: 20.42g
Saturated Fat: 5.27g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.88g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.67g
Carbohydrates: 29.09g
Fiber: 6.87g
Sugar: 2.13g
Protein: 26.43g
Cholesterol: 71.00mg
Sodium: 612.54mg
Calcium: 135.34mg
Potassium: 646.50mg
Iron: 2.03mg
Vitamin A: 178.72µg
Vitamin C: 11.83mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Grilled Chicken Taco Game

To ensure your chicken is perfectly grilled and juicy, make sure to let it rest for a few minutes after grilling before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in more flavorful and tender chicken.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-chop vegetables: Dice the lettuce, tomato, cilantro, and onions in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have an outdoor grill, a grill pan heats up faster and is easier to clean.

Heat tortillas together: Stack and wrap the tortillas in foil, then heat them all at once on the grill.

Pre-slice toppings: Slice the avocado and radishes ahead of time to streamline assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Recipe

Chicken breast cutlets - Substitute with turkey breast cutlets: Turkey breast cutlets offer a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a great alternative for grilled tacos.
Seasoned salt - Substitute with garlic powder and paprika: A mix of garlic powder and paprika can provide a similar savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it suitable for grilling.
Lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though slightly less sweet.
Romaine lettuce - Substitute with iceberg lettuce: Iceberg lettuce provides a similar crunch and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for slaw.
Vine ripe tomato - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, offering a similar flavor profile when chopped.
Cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor, though it lacks the citrus notes of cilantro.
Red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to red onions.
Olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is neutral in flavor and has a high smoke point, making it a good alternative for dressings.
Lime juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a similar tangy acidity, though it lacks the citrus notes.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt offers a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
Fresh black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor, though it is slightly milder.
Corn tortillas - Substitute with flour tortillas: Flour tortillas offer a soft and pliable texture, though they are less traditional for tacos.
Cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a good alternative.
Avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole provides a similar creamy texture and rich flavor, though it is pre-mashed.
Radishes - Substitute with jicama: Jicama offers a similar crunch and mild flavor, making it a good alternative for adding texture.
Lime wedges - Substitute with lemon wedges: Lemon wedges provide a similar citrusy tang, though they are slightly less sweet.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Taco Experience

Serve smaller portion sizes: Arrange the grilled chicken strips in a fan shape on a small, elegant plate. This allows each piece to be appreciated individually.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with thinly sliced radishes and a sprinkle of finely chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Highlight textures: Place a small mound of the lettuce slaw next to the chicken, ensuring the vibrant colors and crisp textures are visible.
Elevate the tortillas: Lightly char the corn tortillas and cut them into quarters. Stack them neatly on the side of the plate to add a rustic yet refined touch.
Showcase the cheese: Crumble the cotija cheese over the chicken and slaw, allowing its creamy texture to contrast with the other ingredients.
Add a touch of luxury: Thinly slice the avocado and fan it out elegantly on the plate, adding a rich, buttery element to the dish.
Incorporate citrus: Place a lime wedge on the side of the plate, ready to be squeezed over the tacos for a burst of fresh acidity.
Balance the colors: Ensure the vine ripe tomatoes and red onions are evenly distributed in the slaw, creating a visually appealing mix of reds, greens, and purples.
Use a minimalist approach: Keep the plating clean and uncluttered, allowing each ingredient to shine and the overall presentation to look sophisticated and intentional.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Chicken Tacos

Outdoor grill: Used to cook the chicken, giving it a smoky flavor and charred texture.
Indoor grill pan: An alternative to the outdoor grill, perfect for indoor cooking while still achieving grill marks.
Cutting board: Essential for slicing the grilled chicken into thin strips.
Knife: Used to cut the chicken, vegetables, and avocado.
Mixing bowl: For combining the lettuce, tomato, cilantro, onions, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken on the grill and turning the tortillas.
Measuring spoons: To accurately measure the seasoned salt, olive oil, and lime juice.
Grill brush: For oiling the grates of the grill to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Serving platter: To present the assembled tacos beautifully.
Juicer: Useful for extracting lime juice efficiently.
Spatula: Helps in handling the tortillas on the grill.
Small bowl: For mixing the marinade for the chicken.
Spoon: To scoop out the avocado and distribute the cotija cheese evenly.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Grilled Chicken Tacos

To store leftover grilled chicken tacos, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to store the components separately, place the grilled chicken, lettuce slaw, and toppings in separate airtight containers. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the grilled chicken, place the cooled chicken strips in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
It's not recommended to freeze the lettuce slaw or avocado, as they will become soggy and lose their texture. It's best to make them fresh when you're ready to serve the tacos.
To reheat the grilled chicken, place the chicken strips in a skillet over medium heat and cook until heated through, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes.
To reheat the corn tortillas, wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave them for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until they're warm and pliable.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Chicken Tacos

To reheat leftover grilled chicken tacos with lettuce slaw, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the tacos are heated through without drying out the chicken or making the tortillas too crispy.
Wrap the tacos loosely in aluminum foil, making sure to leave some space for steam to circulate. This will help keep the tortillas soft and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Place the wrapped tacos on a baking sheet and heat them in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the tortillas are warm and pliable.
If you prefer a crispier texture for your tortillas, you can unwrap the tacos during the last 2-3 minutes of reheating and let them crisp up slightly in the oven.
For the lettuce slaw, it's best to store it separately from the tacos to maintain its freshness and crunch. When you're ready to serve, give the slaw a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and place it on top of the warm tacos.
If the slaw seems a bit dry after being stored in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the flavors and moistness.
Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken filling separately in a skillet over medium heat until warm and then assemble the tacos with the fresh lettuce slaw and warm tortillas. This method ensures that each component maintains its optimal texture and temperature.
Garnish the reheated tacos with fresh cilantro, cotija cheese, and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness and flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Grilled Chicken Tacos

A random fact about this recipe is that cotija cheese is a Mexican cheese named after the town of Cotija in Michoacán. It is known for its crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a perfect topping for tacos.

Budget-Friendly Grilled Chicken Tacos for Home Cooking

This grilled chicken tacos recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breast, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and corn tortillas are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of cotija cheese and avocado adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $20-$25 USD.

Are Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Healthy?

The grilled chicken tacos with lettuce slaw recipe is a relatively healthy option, offering a balance of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains. The chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. The lettuce slaw provides a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the tomatoes and cilantro add antioxidants and flavor. The use of corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas makes this recipe gluten-free and provides a source of whole grains.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, especially in the seasoned salt for the chicken and the kosher salt for the slaw. Too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.
Use a low-fat cheese or omit the cheese altogether to reduce the saturated fat content of the dish.
Include more vegetables in the slaw, such as shredded carrots or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Use a healthier cooking method for the tortillas, such as warming them in the oven or on a griddle instead of grilling them, to reduce the formation of harmful compounds.

To make the recipe even more nutritious, you could:

Add a side of black beans or quinoa for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping to increase the protein content and reduce the fat.
Incorporate more heart-healthy fats by adding sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds to the slaw.
Serve the tacos with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the overall vegetable intake of the meal.

Editor's Take on These Flavorful Chicken Tacos

This grilled chicken tacos recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The seasoned chicken, marinated and grilled to perfection, pairs beautifully with the fresh, crisp lettuce slaw. The addition of creamy avocado and tangy cotija cheese elevates the dish, while the radishes add a nice crunch. The lime wedges provide a zesty finish, making each bite refreshing. Overall, it's a well-balanced, vibrant dish that's perfect for a casual yet impressive meal.

Enhance Your Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Salsa: Add a burst of tropical flavor with a vibrant mango salsa. The sweetness of mangoes paired with the tanginess of lime juice and the heat of jalapeños will perfectly complement the savory grilled chicken tacos.

Mexican Street Corn: Elevate your meal with Mexican street corn, also known as elote. Grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy mayo, sprinkled with cotija cheese, and dusted with chili powder will add a delightful crunch and a hint of spice.

Black Bean and Corn Salad: For a refreshing and hearty side, try a black bean and corn salad. The combination of black beans, sweet corn, red bell peppers, and a zesty lime vinaigrette will add a colorful and nutritious touch to your taco night.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Serve up some cilantro lime rice to add a fragrant and fluffy side dish. The aromatic cilantro and zesty lime will enhance the flavors of the grilled chicken tacos and provide a satisfying base for your meal.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End your meal on a sweet note with churros dipped in rich chocolate sauce. The crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated churros paired with the decadent chocolate will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Tasty Alternatives to Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa: Dive into a burst of flavors with these spicy shrimp tacos, topped with a refreshing mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango perfectly balances the heat of the shrimp, creating a delightful contrast. Serve with a side of lime wedges and a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra zing.

Beef Fajitas with Bell Peppers: Savor the rich and smoky taste of beef fajitas, loaded with colorful bell peppers and onions. The tender beef strips are marinated to perfection and grilled to bring out their natural flavors. Wrap them in warm tortillas and top with your favorite salsa and guacamole.

Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw: Enjoy the light and crispy texture of fish tacos, paired with a crunchy cabbage slaw. The fish is seasoned and fried to a golden brown, then nestled in soft corn tortillas. Add a drizzle of creamy sauce and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish.

Chicken Burrito Bowls with Black Beans: Create a hearty and satisfying meal with chicken burrito bowls, featuring juicy grilled chicken, black beans, and rice. Top with fresh pico de gallo, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner.

Pork Carnitas Tacos with Pineapple Salsa: Indulge in the savory and succulent flavors of pork carnitas, complemented by a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. The slow-cooked pork is shredded and served in soft tortillas, making each bite a delightful experience. Garnish with radishes and cilantro for added freshness.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Tacos

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Delight your guests with these vibrant mini bell peppers stuffed with a creamy cheese blend and fresh herbs. The peppers are roasted to perfection, giving them a slight char that enhances their natural sweetness. The filling, made with goat cheese, cream cheese, and a mix of chives and parsley, provides a tangy contrast. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.

Shrimp Ceviche Cups: Bring a taste of the coast to your table with these refreshing shrimp ceviche cups. Fresh shrimp is marinated in a zesty citrus blend with lime and orange juice, then mixed with diced avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Serve the ceviche in crisp lettuce cups or mini tortilla bowls for a delightful, bite-sized treat. A dash of hot sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors, making it a perfect starter for any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich, molten chocolate center that oozes out as you cut into this decadent treat. The warm, gooey interior pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Savor the tangy lemon curd filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Topped with a cloud of toasted meringue, this dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and add a few lemon zest curls for a burst of citrus aroma.

Why trust this Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the fresh crunch of lettuce slaw. The use of lime juice and cilantro adds a refreshing zest, while cotija cheese and avocado provide a creamy texture. Each element is carefully balanced to create a delicious and satisfying taco experience. Plus, the step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, ensuring perfect results every time.

Share your thoughts on this Grilled Chicken Tacos with Lettuce Slaw Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour to let the flavors really soak in. If you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! If you can't find cotija cheese or prefer something else, feta or queso fresco are great alternatives.

What if I don't have a grill?

No worries! You can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even a regular skillet. Just make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly.

How do I keep the tortillas from falling apart?

Heating the tortillas on the grill helps make them more pliable and less likely to tear. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30 seconds.

Can I make the lettuce slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lettuce slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the tacos.