Zesty Lime Chicken Tacos
These Zesty Lime Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering. The chicken is marinated in a zesty lime and spice blend, then cooked to perfection and served in warm corn tortillas with your favorite toppings for an authentic street taco experience.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Two forks or stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 corn tortillas
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup diced onion
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional toppings: salsa, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for even more flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
- Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed.
- Warm the tortillas using your preferred method: on a gas stove, in a skillet, or in the microwave.
- Fill each warm tortilla with shredded Zesty Lime Chicken.
- Top with chopped cilantro, diced onion, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Add any other taco toppings you desire.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. If you don't have time to marinate, you can still make the tacos, but the flavor will be less intense. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.