BBQ Chicken Tacos are a delightful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With tender barbecue chicken, a crunchy coleslaw, and an array of fresh toppings, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking to spice up Taco Tuesday or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why Make This Recipe
BBQ Chicken Tacos are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile! You can easily adapt them to suit your dietary needs or preferences. The combination of juicy chicken with zesty barbecue sauce and fresh veggies offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, tacos are fun to assemble and customize, allowing everyone at the table to create their perfect bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, BBQ Chicken Tacos are a fantastic choice.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Tacos
Making BBQ Chicken Tacos at home is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can start enjoying these delicious tacos!
Ingredients
To create these tasty BBQ Chicken Tacos, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small-medium avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
- Optional toppings: lime juice, sliced jalapeños
Directions
- Start by making your spice mixture. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Season the chicken thighs evenly with the spice mixture. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Once done, shred the chicken directly in the skillet and pour in the BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and warm through.
- In a medium bowl, prepare the coleslaw by mixing together the shredded cabbage, carrots, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- If desired, warm the corn tortillas either on a gas stove flame for a few seconds on each side or in a skillet.
- To assemble your tacos, lay some coleslaw on each tortilla, then top with the shredded BBQ chicken, shredded cheese, diced avocado, red onion, and more cilantro.
- Finish off with any optional toppings, such as a squeeze of lime juice or sliced jalapeños, for an extra kick of flavor. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Choose Bone-In Chicken: For maximum flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless options.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ chicken a day ahead and simply reheat it when it’s time to serve. This can make weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the spice mixture according to your heat preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or include some cayenne pepper.
- Fresh Veggies: Use freshly shredded cabbage and carrots for the coleslaw to ensure crunchiness and vibrant flavor.
- Tortilla Options: If you don’t have corn tortillas on hand, you can use flour tortillas instead. Just warm them as you would the corn ones.
Flavor Variations BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple or mango to the coleslaw for a sweet, tropical flair.
- Spicy BBQ: Use a spicy barbecue sauce or add diced jalapeños to kicked-up the flavor for those who love heat.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in your favorite cheese into the coleslaw such as crumbled feta or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with shredded jackfruit or mushrooms, and use a plant-based yogurt for the coleslaw to make it vegan.
Serving Suggestions BBQ Chicken Tacos
BBQ Chicken Tacos can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Tortilla Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa or guacamole make a perfect accompaniment.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice complements the tacos delightfully.
- Rice: Serve with cilantro lime rice for a heartier meal. The freshness of the rice pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the BBQ chicken.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tacos.
Storage and Freezing Instructions BBQ Chicken Tacos
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! BBQ Chicken Tacos can be stored for later enjoyment:
- Refrigeration: Place any leftover BBQ chicken and coleslaw in separate airtight containers. Stored this way, they can last for up to three days in the fridge.
- Freezing: The shredded BBQ chicken can be frozen for up to three months. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Tortillas: It’s best to store any leftover tortillas in a sealed bag. Reheat gently before serving again.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
FAQ About BBQ Chicken Tacos
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs add rich flavor and moisture, chicken breast can be used if preferred. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce on hand, you can make a quick homemade sauce with ketchup, a splash of vinegar, and some honey or brown sugar. Alternatively, a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a bit of smoky paprika can also work well.
How spicy are these tacos?
The spice level can vary based on your choice of BBQ sauce and the spices you use. If you prefer milder tacos, look for a sweet BBQ sauce and adjust the chili powder in the spice mix to your liking.
Can I prepare the coleslaw in advance?
Yes! You can make the coleslaw a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.
What other toppings can I add?
In addition to the toppings suggested, you can add sliced radishes, pickled jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for a creamy touch.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Tacos are a delightful combination of smoky, savory chicken intertwined with the freshness of crunchy coleslaw and colorful toppings. They are simple to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick meal on a busy weeknight or serving them at your next gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and take the time to savor each delicious bite!
Print
BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Regular
Description
Delightful and satisfying BBQ Chicken Tacos with tender barbecue chicken, crunchy coleslaw, and fresh toppings for a crowd-pleaser meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small-medium avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
- Optional toppings: lime juice, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Start by making your spice mixture. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Season the chicken thighs evenly with the spice mixture. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Once done, shred the chicken directly in the skillet and pour in the BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and warm through.
- In a medium bowl, prepare the coleslaw by mixing together the shredded cabbage, carrots, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- If desired, warm the corn tortillas either on a gas stove flame for a few seconds on each side or in a skillet.
- To assemble your tacos, lay some coleslaw on each tortilla, then top with the shredded BBQ chicken, shredded cheese, diced avocado, red onion, and more cilantro.
- Finish off with any optional toppings, such as a squeeze of lime juice or sliced jalapeños, for an extra kick of flavor. Enjoy!
Notes
You can prepare the BBQ chicken a day ahead. Choose bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican