Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
There’s nothing quite like a summer dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and brings the whole family together. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe for BBQ Chicken Street Tacos that can be whipped up in just **15 minutes**. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, these tacos blend juicy chicken with zesty toppings and smoky BBQ sauce for an explosion of taste in every bite.
What Is Summer Dinner Ideas: BBQ Chicken Street Tacos in 15 Minutes?
Summer is all about savoring the warmth, enjoying time outdoors, and of course, indulging in delicious food. **BBQ Chicken Street Tacos** elevate traditional tacos by incorporating tender chicken tossed in a rich, smoky BBQ sauce. These tacos are served with fresh veggies and creamy toppings, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue or simply looking to spice up a weekday meal, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This
These BBQ Chicken Street Tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:
1. **Speedy Preparation**: With **15 minutes** from start to finish, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
2. **Flavor-Packed**: The combination of BBQ sauce, fresh veggies, and warm tortillas creates a symphony of flavors in each bite.
3. **Customizable**: You can easily tailor the toppings and sauces to fit your family’s preferences, making them perfect for everyone.
4. **Ideal for Meal Prep**: These tacos hold up well in the fridge, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, here are the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Street Tacos:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cooked chicken breast for a healthier option.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a personalized flavor.
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour) – Soft tortillas add a lovely texture; you can even opt for low-carb options.
- 1 cup coleslaw mix – For crunch; this adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.
- 1 avocado, sliced – Creamy avocado complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a burst of freshness that brightens every bite.
- 1 lime, cut into wedges – A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for adjusting flavors to your liking.
How to Make
Now, let’s dive into how to prepare these quick and delicious BBQ Chicken Street Tacos:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by shredding your cooked chicken if not already done. In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken with the BBQ sauce over medium heat. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is heating, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds until flexible.
- Assemble the Tacos: Once the chicken is heated, take a tortilla and layer on a generous amount of the BBQ chicken. Add a handful of coleslaw mix for crunch, followed by slices of avocado.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for flavor. Don’t forget to squeeze a wedge of lime over each taco for a zesty touch. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the tortillas are warm, and the chicken is hot. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored for leftovers.
Variations & Substitutions
You can easily customize these tacos to fit different tastes:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled jackfruit or roasted vegetables. This not only keeps the dish plant-based but also enhances the texture and flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who prefer a bit of heat. The spiciness harmonizes well with the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.
Different Sauces: Try different sauces like teriyaki or honey mustard for a unique twist. Each sauce brings a distinct flavor that can change the whole nature of the dish.
Make It a Bowl: For a low-carb option, serve the BBQ chicken over a bed of lettuce instead of in tortillas. Top with all the same toppings for a delicious BBQ chicken salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your BBQ Chicken Street Tacos, be cautious of these common pitfalls:
Overheating the Chicken: Make sure to only heat the chicken until warmed through to prevent it from drying out. Dry chicken can ruin the enjoyment of your tacos.
Using Stale Tortillas: Always check your tortillas for freshness. Stale tortillas can break easily, making them difficult to handle. Opt for fresh tortillas for the best texture.
Piling on Too Many Toppings: While toppings add flavor, overloading your taco can make it difficult to eat. Start with a few key toppings and add more based on personal preference.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Storing and reheating BBQ Chicken Street Tacos is easy:
– **Refrigeration**: Store any leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
– **Freezing**: If you want to prep a larger batch, BBQ chicken can be frozen, but do not freeze the tortillas. Store the chicken in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
– **Reheating**: To reheat, warm the chicken in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals. Warm the tortillas separately to maintain their softness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for these tacos?
Absolutely! Besides chicken, you can use pork, beef, or even turkey. Feel free to adjust the cooking time and seasoning according to the meat you choose.
Is there a gluten-free option for the tortillas?
Yes, many brands offer gluten-free tortillas made from corn or alternative flours. Look for these options in your local grocery store.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating spicy ingredients like sliced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or even spicy BBQ sauce. Adjust to your spice tolerance!
Can I make the BBQ chicken in advance?
Certainly! The BBQ chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a convenient option for meal prepping. Just assemble the tacos when ready to serve.
What sides go well with these tacos?
Consider serving these tacos with a side of tortilla chips, guacamole, or a fresh corn salad. Each complements the rich flavors of the BBQ chicken while adding variety to your meal.
Conclusion: Enjoying a quick and easy meal doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. These BBQ Chicken Street Tacos are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, they allow for plenty of creativity with toppings and variations. Try them out, customize as you wish, and enjoy a delicious summer dinner tonight!
