Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos

Name: Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1-1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lime (juiced); salt and black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; 6-8 tortillas; lettuce (for serving); salsa (for serving); avocado or guacamole (for serving)

These Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos are quick and easy to make. The marinade is made with a delicious spice combo you are going to love!

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Unassembled cilantro lime chicken taco ingredients.

I've got your new favorite Taco Tuesday recipe. But also, any day of the week can be taco night IMO. These cilantro lime chicken tacos are going to be a hit with the whole family, you will keep coming back to this recipe!

If you love all kinds of tacos, you'll also like my Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa and Buffalo Chicken Tacos.

Two cilantro lime chicken tacos on a plate next to a bowl of salsa and lime wedges.

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Ingredients
Instructions
FAQs
Leftovers
Other Recipes You May Like
🍳Recipe

Ingredients

What you need for these cilantro lime chicken tacos:

Chicken thighs- you will need 1-1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Olive oil
Lime- you'll need one lime for marinating and serving.
Salt and black pepper
Paprika- I love smoked paprika for this recipe, but sweet paprika also works.
Cayenne- adds some heat to the tacos.
Onion powder
Cumin
Garlic- use fresh, minced garlic cloves in the chicken marinade.
Cilantro- fresh cilantro is best, you'll need 2 tablespoons chopped.
Tortillas- use your favorite tortillas- corn, wheat, cassava flour, etc.

A grilled chicken taco topped with guacamole on a plate.

Instructions

Begin by marinating the chicken thighs in olive oil, lime, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne, onion powder, cumin, garlic cloves and cilantro. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the chicken on the stove in a large skillet or cast-iron pan. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. Next, cut the rested chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the tacos by placing 2-3 pieces of lettuce on a tortilla, top with about ⅓-1/2 cup of the chicken, a tablespoon of salsa and a tablespoon of guacamole or ¼ of sliced avocado. Serve with a lime wedge and enjoy!

A hand grabbing one of two chicken tacos on a white plate.

FAQs

What is the best way to heat tortillas?

There are a number of ways to heat tortillas. Here are my favorite ways:
1. Heat each tortilla over an open flame for approximately 30 seconds per side.
2. Heat tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side.
3. Place the tortillas between 2 slightly damp paper towels and warm in the microwave for 1 minute.

What can I use for topping these chicken tacos?

Since the chicken is already very flavorful on its own, I like to use simple toppings for these tacos. Lettuce, your favorite salsa, sliced avocado and/or guacamole all pair great with the chicken.

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes, you can, however it won't be as flavorful as chicken thighs because chicken breasts are leaner. The chicken breasts will most likely take longer to cook, probably closer to 30 minutes so be sure to check the internal temperature.

How long will the chicken last?

The chicken will last about 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for about 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight.

Cilantro lime chicken taco topped with salsa and guacamole.

Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken and aren't in the mood for more tacos, you can use the chicken for many things. Add it on top of lettuce for a delicious salad, serve with your favorite vegetables and rice, or use it to make a soup or chili!