Imagine a burst of tangy, smoky flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico, all from the comfort of your own kitchen! These Smokey Lime Chicken Street Tacos are not just a meal - they're a culinary adventure that combines the zesty punch of fresh lime, the rich depth of smoked paprika, and perfectly charred chicken nestled in warm corn tortillas. Whether you're a taco enthusiast or a curious home cook looking to spice up your dinner routine, this recipe promises to deliver an explosion of flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 tacos
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 corn tortillas
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of diced chicken breast, 2 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of smoked paprika, the juice of 2 limes, salt and pepper, 6 corn tortillas, and chopped cilantro for garnish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken breast with the olive oil, smoked paprika, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the chicken is marinating, preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice, smoky color.
- While the chicken is cooking, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they are pliable and slightly toasted. You can also wrap them in foil and place them in a warm oven if you prefer.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a minute. This will allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- To assemble the tacos, take a warm tortilla and fill it with a generous amount of the smoky lime chicken. Top with chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor.
- Serve the tacos immediately with additional lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top, if desired. Enjoy your Smokey Lime Chicken Street Tacos!
Tips
- Marination is Key: Let your chicken sit in the lime and spice mixture for at least 10 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
- Get That Perfect Sear: Use a hot skillet and avoid overcrowding to ensure your chicken develops a beautiful smoky color and crispy edges.
- Tortilla Technique: Warm your corn tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable. A quick 30-second toast on each side makes a world of difference.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the brightest, most authentic flavor profile.
- Customize Your Taco: Feel free to add extra toppings like diced onions, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of crema to make these tacos your own.
- Meal Prep Hack: The smoky lime chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making these tacos a quick and easy weeknight dinner option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg
