In This Article:

• Why This BBQ Chicken Taco Recipe Works
• Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Street Tacos
• How to Make BBQ Chicken Tacos: Step-by-Step
• Tips and Tricks for Perfect BBQ Chicken Tacos
• Variations and Substitutions
• Storing and Reheating Your Tacos
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why You’ll Love These BBQ Chicken Street Tacos

These BBQ Chicken Street Tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

• Quick and easy: Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the toppings and BBQ sauce to your preferences.
• Kid-friendly: The slightly sweet flavor and familiar ingredients are a hit with kids.
• Party perfect: Great as an appetizer or main course for gatherings.

Imagine tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings in a warm tortilla. Making these at home is often healthier and faster than takeout!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Street Tacos

This recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that combine to create a depth of flavor. For the best results, use high-quality ingredients!

• Rotisserie Chicken: About 2 cups of shredded meat, skin removed. Pre-cooked chicken cuts down on prep time! Alternatively, use 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, grilled over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side. Some grocery stores sell pre-shredded rotisserie chicken.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand and flavor – sweet, smoky, or spicy. Experiment to find your favorite! A different sauce will change the flavor profile. For homemade, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
• Corn Tortillas: 4-inch “street taco” size works best. Warm them up before assembling to improve texture and flavor. Corn tortillas offer a more authentic experience. Look for tortillas with simple ingredients (corn, water, lime). Store them in the refrigerator.
• Red Onion: Thinly slice the red onion. It adds crunch and a pungent flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, pickle the red onion in vinegar or soak it in ice water for 30 minutes. For even slices, use a mandoline or a sharp knife.
• Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro adds freshness and a bright counterpoint. If you’re not a fan, substitute with parsley or green onions. To keep cilantro fresh, trim the stems and place in a glass of water, loosely covering the leaves with a plastic bag.
• Optional Toppings: Get creative with coleslaw, avocado, pickled onions, lime wedges, jalapeños, cotija cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, or hot sauce. An avocado crema would also be delicious!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Street Tacos: Step-by-Step

Even beginner cooks can easily make this recipe.

• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken. Shred the rotisserie chicken, removing bones and skin. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If the chicken seems dry, consider adding a splash of broth or water to the BBQ sauce. Adding butter while reheating can also help. Use two forks to make shredding easier.
• Step 2: Sauce the Chicken. Toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, making sure every piece is coated. Simmer the sauced chicken in a saucepan over low heat to develop a richer flavor. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sugars in the sauce to burn.
• Step 3: Warm the Tortillas. Heat the tortillas according to package directions. A dry skillet over medium heat usually yields the best results, giving them a toasted flavor. If using a microwave, be careful not to overheat them. You can also warm them in the oven, wrapped in foil, at 350°F for 10 minutes. Stack warm tortillas in a warmer or wrap them in a kitchen towel to keep them pliable.
• Step 4: Assemble the Tacos. Place a spoonful of BBQ chicken onto each tortilla. Don’t overfill them! About 1/4 cup of chicken per taco is ideal. You might layer lettuce to prevent the tortilla from getting soggy. Overfilling results in messy tacos.
• Step 5: Add Toppings. Top with desired garnishes, such as red onion and cilantro. Setting out ingredients taco-bar style lets everyone customize. If planning a party, prepare toppings in advance and offer variety.
• Step 6: Serve Immediately. Garnish with lime wedges and serve! A squeeze of lime juice enhances all the flavors. Freshly squeezed lime juice tastes best!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect BBQ Chicken Tacos

To make your BBQ Chicken Street Tacos the best they can be, follow these tips:

• Don’t Overfill: Street tacos are meant to be small and easy to eat, so avoid overfilling.
• Warm Tortillas Correctly: Cold tortillas crack and tear, so warming is essential. A skillet helps release their natural corn flavor. Keep warmed tortillas in a warmer or wrapped in a kitchen towel to prevent drying out. Toasting lightly in a skillet yields the best results.
• Make Your Own BBQ Sauce: For a personalized touch, consider making your own BBQ sauce to tailor the flavor. Making the sauce ahead of time will let the flavors meld.
• Add Some Heat: If you like a kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce. You could also add sliced jalapeños or sriracha mayo. A pinch of red pepper flakes is another option.

BBQ Chicken Street Tacos Tips and Variations

For a smoky flavor, try charring the tortillas over an open flame. Use tongs to carefully flip the tortillas until lightly charred, but be careful not to burn them.

Using a squeeze bottle for sauces and toppings will give you better control and reduce spills.

For more flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before assembling.

If using pre-shredded cheese, toss it with cornstarch to prevent clumping.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to change up your BBQ Chicken Street Tacos using these simple ideas:

• Chicken: Instead of rotisserie chicken, use grilled chicken, shredded pork, or seasoned ground beef. Marinating grilled chicken in BBQ sauce before grilling will add even more flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different flavors, such as honey BBQ, chipotle BBQ, or even a fruity BBQ sauce. Try different regional styles.
• Toppings: Consider adding pineapple or mango salsa, or black beans. Drizzle with Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing 5 Minute Recipe. Other ideas include corn salsa, avocado crema, pickled jalapeños, and queso fresco. A Southwestern-style coleslaw is also great.
• Vegetarian: For a vegetarian option, use grilled halloumi cheese or shredded jackfruit. If you opt for jackfruit, season it with BBQ spices. Grilled portobello mushrooms would also be delicious!

Are you looking for even more taco night inspiration? Don’t miss my recipe for 7 Year Perfected Grilled Shrimp Tacos With Pineapple Salsa!

Cilantro balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, while lime adds a bright acidity. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt.

If you want spicier tacos, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the chicken.

Consider adding shredded cabbage or lettuce to the bottom to keep the tortilla from becoming soggy.

Storing and Reheating Your Tacos

Proper storage will help maintain flavor and texture!

• Storing: Store the chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep tortillas in a separate bag at room temperature. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave. Reheat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave, wrapped in a damp paper towel. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F. Be careful not to overheat the chicken.
• Assembling: Assemble the tacos just before serving to prevent soggy tortillas.

The BBQ chicken filling also tastes great cold or warm on a salad! You could also use it in quesadillas, nachos, or as a pizza topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making BBQ Chicken Street Tacos:

Can I make these BBQ Chicken Street Tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the chicken ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling. You can also prepare toppings in advance.

What’s the best way to warm the tortillas?

A dry skillet over medium heat works best, about 30 seconds per side. For warming a big batch, use a tortilla warmer.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, flour tortillas are a good substitute. Look for small, street taco-sized flour tortillas. Whole wheat flour tortillas are a nutritious alternative.

What if my BBQ sauce is too thick?

Add water or apple cider vinegar to thin it. Stir well, then taste and adjust the seasonings.

Enjoy Your BBQ Chicken Street Tacos

These BBQ Chicken Street Tacos are simple to make, delicious, and destined to become a family favorite! The combination of chicken and fresh toppings is irresistible. They’re perfect for an easy dinner, a casual party, or anytime you’re craving flavor! Why not surprise your guests with some BBQ Wings, too? Find the recipe for our Bbq Wings now. Happy cooking, and enjoy these amazing BBQ Chicken Street Tacos!

More Recipes You’ll Enjoy:

• Honey Garlic Bbq Chicken Skewers Recipe
• Air Fryer Chicken Breast
• Baked Chicken Drumsticks
• Cook Chicken Breast Pan
• Cook Chicken Breast Pan 2

Helpful References:

• 35 Minute Homemade Tangy Bbq Sauce For Grilling Season Secret
• Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing 5 Minute Recipe
• 7 Year Perfected Grilled Shrimp Tacos With Pineapple Salsa

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