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Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos for Perfect Summer Nights

This Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos recipe features vibrant flavors, ideal for summer gatherings with friends and family.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 51 minutes
Servings: 4 tacos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Juicy and flavorful; can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Cilantro Adds fresh herbal flavor.
  • 2 Limes Juice + zest provides bright acidity and zest; essential for the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adds warmth and slight heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Introduces a smoky, earthy flavor note.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds depth; fresh garlic can be used for more punch.
  • ½ teaspoon Ground Coriander Contributes citrus and spice notes.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Helps to blend marinade and prevents sticking on the grill.
For Assembly
  • Tortillas For serving; corn or flour can be used based on preference.
  • Pico de Gallo Suggested topping to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Cheese Suggested topping to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Cilantro Suggested topping to enhance flavor and texture.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • mixing bowl
  • sealble plastic bag
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the juice and zest of two limes, oil, chopped cilantro, salt, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and ground coriander. Whisk until everything is well blended and the marinade is a vibrant, greenish hue.
  2. Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs in a sealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for extra flavor.
  3. While the chicken marinates, prepare your grill or campfire for direct heat cooking. If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high, about 400°F (200°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-8 minutes per side, until they are blackened and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
  6. While the chicken rests, warm your tortillas on the grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side.
  7. After resting, slice the grilled chicken against the grain into bite-sized pieces.
  8. To assemble your Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos, place a few pieces of sliced chicken in the center of each warmed tortilla. Top with pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and extra cilantro if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tacoCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Marinate longer for more flavor. Avoid overcrowding the grill and ensure a well-preheated surface for even cooking.

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