Oh my goodness, let me tell you about BBQ chicken tacos! These little bundles of joy are not only ridiculously delicious, but they’re also super versatile, which makes them a staple in my kitchen. Every time I whip them up, I’m taken back to those warm summer nights spent with friends gathered around a grill, laughter filling the air, and the tantalizing smell of BBQ wafting through the yard. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like biting into a soft corn tortilla filled with tender, tangy chicken and topped with fresh veggies. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively gathering, these tacos always steal the show. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones. Let’s dive into making these fabulous tacos that are sure to impress!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Tacos
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering BBQ chicken tacos! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that delicious flavor and satisfying texture. Make sure you have everything ready:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for this—so tender and flavorful!
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand! A smoky or sweet sauce really elevates the chicken.
- 8 small corn tortillas: These are perfect for holding all that goodness. Warm them up for the best flavor!
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, it adds a nice crunch to each bite.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring brightness and juiciness to the tacos.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: This herb adds a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the BBQ chicken.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy avocado is a must! It adds richness and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese: I usually go for cheddar or a Mexican blend for that melty goodness.
These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that you won’t be able to resist! Get ready to assemble your tacos and dive into this deliciousness!
How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Tacos
Alright, let’s get down to business! Preparing these BBQ chicken tacos is super quick and easy, so you’ll be munching on them in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be a taco-making pro in no time.
Step 1: Mix Chicken with BBQ Sauce
First things first, grab that cooked shredded chicken and toss it into a mixing bowl. Now, pour in the BBQ sauce—don’t be shy! You want to make sure every piece of chicken gets a nice, even coating of that tangy goodness. Give it a good stir until the chicken is fully covered; this is what brings all the flavor!
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
Next up, let’s warm those corn tortillas! Heat a skillet over medium heat—no oil needed here. Just place the tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is crucial because warming them makes them pliable and enhances their flavor, so they can really hold all that delicious filling. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
Now comes the fun part—assembling your tacos! Take a warm tortilla and scoop in a generous portion of the BBQ chicken mixture right in the center. Don’t overfill, or you’ll have a messy situation on your hands! Just a good amount to start with, and then you can layer on your toppings.
Step 4: Add Fresh Toppings
Finally, it’s time to top your tacos! Start with a handful of that shredded lettuce for crunch, followed by the diced tomatoes for that juicy pop. Sprinkle on the chopped cilantro for a fresh kick, and don’t forget those creamy avocado slices! Finish it off with a sprinkle of shredded cheese for that melty finish. The combination of all these fresh toppings is what makes each bite so satisfying. Serve immediately, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes!
- Deliciously smoky and tangy flavors that are totally addictive.
- Customizable toppings mean you can make them your own—add whatever you love!
- Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep for the week.
- Gluten-free if you stick with corn tortillas—great for everyone at the table.
- Leftovers are just as tasty, making them great for lunch the next day.
- Packed with protein to keep you satisfied and full.
Seriously, you’ll find yourself reaching for these BBQ chicken tacos time and time again, and I can’t blame you! They check all the boxes for a perfect meal.
Tips for Success
To take your BBQ chicken tacos from good to absolutely amazing, here are some of my go-to tips that I swear by! Follow these, and you’ll be the taco star of your next gathering.
- Choose the right BBQ sauce: Not all BBQ sauces are created equal! Go for one that you absolutely love—whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy. The sauce is key to the flavor, so pick one that excites your taste buds!
- Warm those tortillas: Trust me, don’t skip this step! Warm tortillas are not only easier to handle, but they also enhance the overall flavor and texture. A little heat goes a long way!
- Don’t overfill: It’s tempting to pile on the chicken and toppings, but a little restraint goes a long way. Overfilling can lead to a taco explosion, and nobody wants that. Just enough to enjoy every bite without the mess!
- Experiment with toppings: While I love the classic toppings, feel free to get creative! Consider adding pickled red onions for tang, jalapeños for heat, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for a creamy twist. The options are endless!
- Serve immediately: These tacos are best enjoyed fresh! If possible, serve them right after assembling. The contrast of warm chicken and cool toppings creates the ultimate taco experience.
- Meal prep friendly: If you’re making these for meal prep, store the chicken and toppings separately. This way, the tortillas won’t get soggy, and you can enjoy fresh tacos throughout the week!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating BBQ chicken tacos that everyone will love! Happy taco making!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! While these BBQ chicken tacos are absolutely delicious, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (that’s about 2 tacos):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use—like the type of BBQ sauce or cheese. So, feel free to tweak the recipe as you see fit! Enjoy your tacos without any guilt, knowing you’re treating yourself to something tasty and satisfying.
FAQ Section
I know you might have some burning questions about these BBQ chicken tacos, so let’s tackle a few of the most common ones! I want you to feel completely prepared to whip these up with confidence.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded and ready to mix with that delicious BBQ sauce!
What if I don’t have corn tortillas?
No worries! You can substitute with flour tortillas if that’s what you have. They’ll be a bit softer, but still super tasty! Just warm them up the same way.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
If you’re a spice lover, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top. You can also mix some diced chili peppers into the BBQ sauce for an extra kick!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This way, your tortillas won’t get soggy. They should stay fresh for about 3 days. Just reheat the chicken before assembling your tacos again!
Can I freeze the BBQ chicken mixture?
You sure can! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it before serving.
What are some fun serving suggestions?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Serve these tacos with a side of tortilla chips and salsa, or whip up a refreshing slaw for extra crunch. You could also create a taco bar with various toppings and let everyone customize their own—fun for gatherings!
With these answers in mind, you’re all set to make the best BBQ chicken tacos ever! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have some BBQ chicken tacos hanging around after your meal, here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay just as delicious as when you first made them.
First off, it’s best to keep the components separate for optimal freshness. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should be good for about 3 days. I like to keep the toppings—like lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro, avocado, and cheese—in separate containers as well. This way, they won’t get soggy or lose their crunch.
When it’s time to enjoy those tasty leftovers again, you’ll want to reheat the chicken. Simply pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for that lovely, slightly crispy texture. Just keep an eye on it to avoid drying out the chicken!
Now, for the tortillas, I recommend warming them in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, just like you did when you first made them. This little step makes a world of difference, bringing back that soft, pliable texture. Then, assemble your tacos with your fresh toppings, and you’re all set to dive into deliciousness once more!
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to ensure your BBQ chicken tacos are just as fabulous the second time around!
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BBQ Chicken Tacos: 7 Reasons They’ll Steal Your Heart
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious BBQ chicken tacos with fresh toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl.
- Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet.
- Fill each tortilla with BBQ chicken mixture.
- Add lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro on top.
- Top with avocado slices and shredded cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use store-bought BBQ sauce.
- Feel free to add other toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.
- These tacos are best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: bbq chicken tacos
