Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe

Spice up your dinner routine with these savory Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos. Perfectly charred chicken coated in a tangy, sweet, and smoky marinade is paired with fresh, crisp vegetables and creamy avocado on warm corn tortillas. Bursting with flavor, these tacos are sure to become a favorite.

Photos of Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe

Ancho chili powder, the key ingredient for the chicken marinade, is made from dried, ground poblano peppers and imparts a mild, sweet heat with smoky undertones. It can be found in the spice section of most supermarkets or online. Another important ingredient is orange zest, which adds a bright citrus note to the chicken. It's easily obtained by grating the outer peel of an orange.

Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Ingredients

Ancho chili powder: This is a key ingredient for the marinade, providing a mild, sweet heat with smoky undertones.

Orange zest: This is used to give the marinade a bright, citrusy flavor. It's made by grating the outer peel of an orange.

Orange juice: This acidulates the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken while also adding a hint of sweetness.

Olive oil: It helps to emulsify the marinade and keep the chicken moist during grilling.

Chicken: The star of this recipe, the chicken is marinated, then grilled to perfection.

Corn tortillas: These form the base of the tacos. They are lightly grilled and provide a chewy contrast to the other ingredients.

Baby arugula: This adds a fresh, peppery bite to the tacos.

Avocado: Provides a rich creaminess that balances out the heat from the chili powder.

Radishes: These add a satisfying crunch and a peppery note to the tacos.

Cherry tomatoes: Their sweet, juicy flavor complements the spicy chicken.

Red onion: It brings a slight sharpness which cuts through the rich flavors of the other ingredients.

Cilantro: Cilantro leaves add a hit of fresh, herbal flavor to the tacos.

Sour cream: This cools down the heat from the chili and adds a tangy contrast to the other flavors.

Lime: Serve wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos, adding a zesty finish.

One reader, Andy Cisneros says:

This spicy grilled chicken tacos recipe is a game-changer! The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, and the toppings add a refreshing crunch. The combination of spices and citrus is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a little kick in their tacos!

Andy Cisneros

Techniques Required for Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe

Prepare the marinade: Combine ancho chili powder, oregano, cumin, sugar, salt, garlic, orange zest, orange juice, and olive oil in a bowl to create a loose paste. Add the chicken and coat it evenly with the marinade. Set it aside to marinate.

Grill the chicken: Cook the marinated chicken on a gas or charcoal grill over medium-high, direct heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas on the grill or in a hot, dry skillet over medium-high heat until air pockets start to puff up. Turn them with tongs and heat for a few seconds on the other side. Keep them warm by wrapping them in a tea towel until serving.

Assemble the tacos: Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Place a small handful of arugula on each tortilla, then top with chicken slices, sliced avocado, radishes, tomatoes, and onion slices. Drizzle with thinned sour cream and serve with lime wedges.

How To Make Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

In just over 30 minutes, you can prep & cook these chicken tacos. They’re flavored with a variety of spices and brightened up with some orange zest & juice.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

2tbspancho chili powder
1tsporegano,dried
1tspcumin,dried
1tspsugar
½tspsalt
1clovegarlic,finely chopped
1tbsporange zest,finely grated
3tbspforange juice,resh squeezed
2tbspolive oil

To serve:

6skinless,(1¼ lbs), boneless chicken thighs
8smallcorn tortillas
3cupsbaby arugula,(3 ounces), packed
2mediumripe avocados,sliced
4radishes,thinly sliced
½pintcherry tomatoes,halved
¼red onion,thinly sliced
cilantro,roughly chopped
½cupsour cream,thinned with ¼ milk
1lime,cut into wedges

Instructions

Prepare a gas or charcoal grill for medium-high, direct heat.
In a large bowl, stir together the chili powder, oregano, cumin, sugar, salt, garlic and orange zest. Stir in the orange juice and olive oil to make a loose paste. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat all over.
Set aside to marinate while the grill heats and the rest of the toppings are being prepared.
Grill the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat registers 165 degrees F. Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes.
Place each tortilla on the grill or on a hot, dry skillet over medium-high heat. As soon as pockets of the air start to puff up in the tortilla, turn it with tongs and heat for a few seconds on the other side. Wrap warmed tortillas in a tea towel to keep them warm until serving.
Slice the chicken into strips. On each tortilla, place a small handful of arugula. Top with chicken slices, sliced avocado, radishes, tomatoes, and onion slices. Drizzle with the thinned sour cream. Serve with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Calories: 280.65kcal
Fat: 19.61g
Saturated Fat: 4.49g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.58g
Carbohydrates: 26.52g
Fiber: 8.64g
Sugar: 3.60g
Protein: 4.62g
Cholesterol: 9.97mg
Sodium: 305.95mg
Calcium: 88.83mg
Potassium: 604.80mg
Iron: 1.86mg
Vitamin A: 101.23µg
Vitamin C: 18.25mg

Technique Tip for Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe

When marinating the chicken, ensure that all pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. This will not only ensure that the flavor is well-distributed, but also that the chicken cooks evenly on the grill. For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any cross-contamination with other foods.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking. This allows the flavors to develop and makes the cooking process quicker.

Batch cooking: Grill extra chicken and store it in the fridge. It can be used for salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for other dishes throughout the week.

Organized setup: Before starting, ensure all ingredients and tools are organized and easily accessible. This prevents last-minute searching and saves time during the cooking process.

Efficient chopping: Chop all the vegetables at once to streamline the taco assembly process. This also reduces the overall prep time.

Multi-tasking: While the chicken is grilling, warm the tortillas and prepare the toppings to make the most of your cooking time.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup. This keeps the kitchen organized and saves time after the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe

ancho chili powder - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika will provide a similar smoky flavor and mild heat to the dish.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor that can complement the dish.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that can work well in place of cumin.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness while also providing a unique flavor to the marinade.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic.
orange zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar citrusy brightness to the dish.
orange juice - Substitute with pineapple juice: Pineapple juice can add a tangy sweetness similar to orange juice.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil.
chicken - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be marinated and grilled to provide a vegetarian alternative to chicken in the tacos.
corn tortillas - Substitute with lettuce wraps: Lettuce wraps can be used as a low-carb alternative to corn tortillas for a lighter option.
baby arugula - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can offer a similar tender texture and mild, slightly earthy flavor to arugula.
avocados - Substitute with mangoes: Mangoes can provide a sweet and creamy alternative to avocados in the tacos.
radishes - Substitute with jicama: Jicama can offer a similar crunchy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor to radishes.
cherry tomatoes - Substitute with sliced regular tomatoes: Sliced regular tomatoes can be used as a substitute for cherry tomatoes in the tacos.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to red onions.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can offer a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy alternative to sour cream.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can offer a similar citrusy brightness to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

Gas or charcoal grill: A gas or charcoal grill is essential for grilling the chicken to perfection, imparting a smoky flavor to the meat.
Large bowl: A large bowl is used for marinating the chicken and ensuring that the spices and flavors are evenly distributed.
Grill or hot, dry skillet: The grill or a hot, dry skillet is used to warm the tortillas, giving them a slightly charred and smoky flavor.
Tongs: Tongs are necessary for flipping the tortillas and handling the grilled chicken with ease.
Tea towel: A tea towel is used to wrap the warmed tortillas, keeping them warm and pliable until serving.
Plate: A plate is used to transfer the grilled chicken to allow it to rest before slicing.
Thermometer: A thermometer is used to ensure that the grilled chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Knife: A knife is essential for slicing the grilled chicken into strips for assembling the tacos.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing the vegetables and chicken.
Serving platter: A serving platter is used for presenting the assembled tacos for serving.

Storing and Freezing Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

To store leftover spicy grilled chicken tacos, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you have leftover grilled chicken, store it separately from the tortillas and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the spicy grilled chicken, allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to use frozen grilled chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
It's not recommended to freeze assembled tacos, as the tortillas and toppings may become soggy and lose their texture. Instead, freeze the chicken separately and assemble the tacos when ready to serve.
If you have leftover toppings such as sliced avocado, radishes, tomatoes, and onions, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To maintain the best quality and flavor, consume leftover spicy grilled chicken tacos and toppings within the recommended storage times.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

The best way to reheat leftover spicy grilled chicken tacos is to separate the components and reheat them individually. This will ensure that each element maintains its optimal texture and flavor.
Start by removing the chicken from the tortillas and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave the chicken on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through.
If you prefer a crispier texture for your chicken, you can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan and cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it's crispy and heated through.
For the tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 15-20 seconds, or until they're warm and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
To reheat the toppings, such as avocado, radishes, tomatoes, and onions, it's best to keep them fresh and cold. However, if you have any leftover sour cream or salsa, you can microwave them for 10-15 seconds, or until they're warm.
Once all the components are heated, reassemble your tacos by placing the chicken on the warm tortillas and topping them with the fresh vegetables and reheated sour cream or salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious leftover spicy grilled chicken tacos!

Random Fact About Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

The spicy grilled chicken tacos recipe is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, known for its bold and vibrant flavors. It's a versatile recipe that allows for customization with various toppings and seasonings, making it a favorite for gatherings and parties.

Is Making Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos at Home Economical?

This spicy grilled chicken tacos recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken, spices, and vegetables, are reasonably priced and readily available. The versatility of the dish allows for variations based on budget and preferences. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it an affordable and satisfying meal option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spicy grilled chicken tacos recipe is a relatively healthy option, thanks to the use of lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and whole grain corn tortillas. The marinade for the chicken is packed with flavorful spices and herbs, such as ancho chili powder, oregano, cumin, and garlic, which add depth without relying on excessive salt or sugar. The inclusion of orange zest and juice in the marinade provides a burst of citrus flavor and some natural sweetness. The toppings, including baby arugula, avocado, radishes, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, offer a variety of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. The lime wedges served on the side can add a bright, acidic note to balance out the flavors.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping to increase protein and reduce fat content
Add more vegetables to the tacos, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, or grilled zucchini, to increase fiber and nutrient density
Opt for a whole wheat or sprouted grain tortilla to boost the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of avocado used or replace it with a dollop of mashed black beans for a lower-fat, higher-fiber option
Serve the tacos with a side salad or a small portion of quinoa or brown rice to create a well-rounded meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe

The combination of ancho chili powder, orange zest, and cumin in the marinade adds a delightful depth of flavor to the grilled chicken, while the fresh and vibrant toppings bring a perfect balance. The use of arugula, avocado, radishes, and tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, and the addition of sour cream and lime wedges adds a creamy and tangy finish. This recipe offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, making it a delicious and satisfying dish for any occasion.

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

Guacamole: Create a zesty and creamy guacamole with a hint of lime and cilantro to complement the spicy grilled chicken tacos.

Mango salsa: Whip up a refreshing and sweet mango salsa with a kick of jalapeno to add a tropical twist to the spicy grilled chicken tacos.

Cilantro lime rice: Prepare a fragrant and tangy cilantro lime rice to serve alongside the spicy grilled chicken tacos for a burst of flavor and color.

Grilled pineapple: Grill some juicy and caramelized pineapple slices to add a touch of sweetness and smokiness to the spicy grilled chicken tacos.

Corn and black bean salad: Mix up a vibrant and hearty corn and black bean salad with a zesty vinaigrette to provide a satisfying and nutritious side dish for the spicy grilled chicken tacos.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

Spicy Grilled Shrimp Tacos: These tacos are a delicious alternative to chicken, featuring juicy grilled shrimp and a zesty lime crema.

Mango Salsa Chicken Tacos: Add a tropical twist to your tacos with this recipe, featuring juicy mango salsa and tender grilled chicken.

Vegetarian Black Bean Tacos: For a meatless option, try these flavorful black bean tacos topped with fresh avocado, corn, and a tangy lime crema.

Pineapple BBQ Pork Tacos: Indulge in the sweet and savory flavors of these tacos, featuring tender BBQ pork and a refreshing pineapple salsa.

Coconut Lime Fish Tacos: Enjoy a taste of the tropics with these fish tacos, featuring flaky white fish and a creamy coconut lime sauce.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing skewers are a delightful way to start any gathering. With juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they are a light and flavorful option for appetizers.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry coulis for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe:

This recipe offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The ancho chili powder, oregano, and cumin infuse the chicken with a rich, smoky essence, while the orange zest and orange juice add a zesty brightness. The use of olive oil not only enhances the dish's depth but also promotes heart-healthy cooking. The inclusion of avocados and arugula introduces a refreshing and nutritious element, elevating the overall appeal. With a harmonious medley of ingredients and meticulous grilling instructions, this recipe promises a delectable and satisfying meal.

Want to share your own twist on this Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How spicy are the grilled chicken tacos?

The level of spiciness in the grilled chicken tacos can be adjusted based on personal preference. The ancho chili powder provides a mild to medium heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount to suit your taste.

Can I use something other than ancho chili powder?

Absolutely! If you don't have ancho chili powder, you can substitute it with other chili powders such as chipotle or regular chili powder. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish.

Can I make the grilled chicken tacos ahead of time?

While the chicken can be marinated ahead of time, it's best to grill and assemble the tacos just before serving to ensure the ingredients are fresh and the tortillas are warm.

What can I serve as a side dish with the grilled chicken tacos?

A fresh corn and black bean salad, Mexican street corn, or a side of Mexican rice would complement the grilled chicken tacos perfectly.

How can I make the grilled chicken tacos vegetarian?

You can easily make the grilled chicken tacos vegetarian by substituting the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu. The rest of the ingredients and toppings can remain the same for a delicious vegetarian option.