Taco night is a staple in many households, but why not mix it up with a new twist? These BBQ chicken tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make option that the whole family will love. The smoky BBQ flavor pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken and fresh toppings, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Season chicken breasts with additional salt and pepper, then brush with BBQ sauce mixture.
- Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Assemble tacos by filling each taco shell with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, BBQ chicken strips, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
These BBQ chicken tacos are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The chicken can be grilled ahead of time and reheated for an even faster meal. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado or sour cream, to make them your own.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option
To make these tacos vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Use a vegan BBQ sauce and omit the cheese to make them vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free Option
For a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas instead of taco shells. Make sure to check that all of your ingredients, including the BBQ sauce, are gluten-free.
Conclusion
BBQ chicken tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. They’re a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, and can be customized to fit your dietary needs. Give them a try and see how they become a new favorite in your household!
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs for BBQ Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster than thighs.
Can I use a store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use a store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making your own. However, homemade BBQ sauce will have a fresher taste and you can adjust the ingredients to your liking.
Can I make the chicken ahead of time for BBQ Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can make the chicken ahead of time for BBQ Chicken Tacos. Simply store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different type of tortilla for BBQ Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can use a different type of tortilla for BBQ Chicken Tacos. Flour tortillas or corn tortillas both work well.
Can I use a grill instead of a skillet for the chicken in BBQ Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can use a grill instead of a skillet for the chicken in BBQ Chicken Tacos. Simply grill the chicken until cooked through, then chop into small pieces before assembling the tacos.
Can I use a different type of cheese for BBQ Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese for BBQ Chicken Tacos. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese both work well.
Can I add additional toppings to BBQ Chicken Tacos?
Yes, you can add additional toppings to BBQ Chicken Tacos. Sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce are all great options.
Can I make the BBQ Chicken Tacos vegetarian?
Yes, you can make the BBQ Chicken Tacos vegetarian by using a meat alternative such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan instead of chicken.
Can I make the BBQ Chicken Tacos gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the BBQ Chicken Tacos gluten-free by using gluten-free tortillas and ensuring that any other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze the BBQ Chicken Tacos?
No, it is not recommended to freeze BBQ Chicken Tacos as the tortillas can become soggy when thawed. It is best to store any leftover chicken and toppings separately and assemble fresh tacos when ready to eat.
