Taco night is a weekly ritual in many homes, but let’s be honest—sometimes, the same old ground beef and basic toppings can get a little boring. If you’re ready to shake things up without sacrificing that crave-worthy taco flavor, chicken is the answer. Juicy, versatile, and packed with protein, it’s the perfect canvas for bold spices, zesty marinades, and creative toppings that’ll make your next taco night unforgettable.
In this list, we’ve rounded up 13 mouthwatering chicken taco recipes that range from smoky and spicy to fresh and tangy. Imagine tender chipotle-lime chicken piled onto warm corn tortillas, topped with creamy avocado and pickled onions. Or crispy buffalo chicken tacos drizzled with cool ranch dressing and crumbled blue cheese. Maybe you’re in the mood for something tropical, like coconut-lime grilled chicken with mango salsa. Whatever your taste, there’s a taco here to match it—and maybe even inspire a new family favorite.
We’ve included quick weeknight fixes, slow-cooked fillings for maximum flavor, and even healthier options that don’t skimp on taste. Plus, pro tips on the best toppings, salsas, and tortillas to take your tacos from good to “Can we have these again tomorrow?” So grab your skillet, fire up the grill, or dust off the slow cooker—it’s time to give taco night the upgrade it deserves.
Smoky BBQ Chicken Tacos
Smoky BBQ chicken tacos are a delicious twist on the classic taco night. With tender, juicy chicken infused with smoky flavors, these tacos are perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of sweet barbecue sauce and savory spices creates a taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
This recipe is simple to make, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Pair the smoky chicken with fresh toppings like crunchy cabbage and zesty lime for a burst of flavor in every bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Warm the Tortillas: In a separate pan, warm the tortillas until they are soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place sliced chicken in each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage and cilantro.
- Serve: Squeeze lime juice over the tacos before serving for an extra kick!
Mango Habanero Chicken Tacos
These Mango Habanero Chicken Tacos bring a delightful balance of sweet and spicy to your dinner table. The juicy chicken is seasoned with a kick from the habanero pepper, while the fresh mango adds a burst of sweetness and color. This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also simple to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun taco night with friends.
The combination of flavors in these tacos is sure to please anyone who enjoys a bit of heat. The contrasting textures of the tender chicken and crunchy onions, along with the vibrant mango, create a dish that looks as great as it tastes. Get ready to spice things up with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon habanero sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 8 small tortillas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, olive oil, habanero sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Warm the Tortillas: In another pan, warm the tortillas until they are soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Place some cooked chicken on each tortilla, then top with diced mango and sliced red onion.
- Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve immediately.
Cilantro-Lime Grilled Chicken Tacos
Cilantro-lime grilled chicken tacos are a vibrant and refreshing twist on traditional tacos. The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, bringing out a zesty flavor that pairs wonderfully with fresh ingredients. These tacos are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night with friends.
The tangy lime and fragrant cilantro elevate the dish, creating a balance that tickles your taste buds. Filled with fresh avocado, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cilantro, these tacos are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 small tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- Extra cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. Fill each tortilla with sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Top with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos with Blue Cheese Dressing
These Buffalo Chicken Tacos bring a fiery twist to your taco night. Combining tender chicken coated in spicy buffalo sauce with a cool, creamy blue cheese dressing, this dish is all about bold flavors that complement each other perfectly. It’s simple to make, making it a go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Every bite of these tacos delivers a satisfying crunch paired with a spicy kick, making them irresistible. Serve them up with a side of crunchy celery sticks for an added crunch. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup blue cheese dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in the buffalo sauce and stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Prepare the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a separate skillet or microwave. Place a portion of the buffalo chicken in each tortilla.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle the blue cheese dressing over the chicken, and top with shredded lettuce, diced celery, and cilantro.
- Serve: Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Tacos warm, garnished with extra blue cheese dressing on the side!
Sweet Chili Chicken Tacos
Sweet chili chicken tacos are a delightful twist on your traditional taco night. These tacos are packed with tender chicken that’s glazed in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. They’re simple to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them a great choice for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.
The addition of fresh toppings like crunchy slaw and cilantro adds a refreshing crunch that complements the sweet and savory chicken perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these tacos are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, diced
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Sauces: Stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and minced ginger. Cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is coated and the sauce is heated through.
- Prepare the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave. Spoon the sweet chili chicken onto each tortilla.
- Add Toppings: Top with shredded cabbage and carrots. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Squeeze lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!
Crispy Chicken Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Crispy chicken tacos are a fantastic twist on traditional taco night! With juicy, crunchy chicken paired with a creamy avocado sauce, these tacos are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crunch of the chicken gives a satisfying bite, while the avocado sauce adds a creamy, rich layer that complements the spices perfectly.
This recipe is simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare the chicken and sauce, and everyone can customize their tacos with fresh toppings!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced jalapeños
- Feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas in a pan or microwave. Place crispy chicken inside each tortilla, then top with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Serve: Drizzle with creamy avocado sauce and enjoy!
Honey-Lime Chicken Tacos
These Honey-Lime Chicken Tacos bring a delightful twist to your taco night. With a perfect balance of sweetness from honey and a zesty kick from lime, they offer a fresh and vibrant flavor that everyone will love. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, making them a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
The juicy chicken, marinated in a honey-lime sauce, pairs wonderfully with crunchy fresh toppings. Serve these tacos with your favorite sides, and you’re in for a real treat!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet. Place sliced chicken on each tortilla and top with diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and avocado.
- Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Tacos
These Spicy Chipotle Chicken Tacos are perfect for anyone looking to add a kick to their taco night. The chipotle peppers bring a smoky heat, while the tender chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Simple to prepare, they make a great weeknight meal that your family will love.
With fresh toppings like cilantro and lime, these tacos are not just about heat; they’re about balancing flavors. You can easily customize them to suit your taste, making them a fun addition to any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with olive oil, minced chipotle peppers, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is cooking, warm the tortillas in another pan or in the microwave for a few seconds until soft.
- Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with the spicy chicken, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Tacos
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Tacos are a vibrant twist on traditional taco night. With a smoky, spicy flavor from the jerk seasoning, these tacos are anything but ordinary. The combination of tender chicken, fresh mango salsa, and zesty lime creates a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
This recipe is simple to make and packed with bold flavors. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it an easy weeknight meal that impresses. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner, these tacos will bring a taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced mango
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 small tortillas
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with jerk seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through and charred. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Make the Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Assemble the Tacos: Slice the chicken and place it in the tortillas. Top with mango salsa and additional cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy your Jamaican Jerk Chicken Tacos warm, garnished with extra lime wedges on the side!
Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
These Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa bring a fun twist to your taco night. The sweetness of the teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with the tangy pineapple salsa, making every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, they are simple to whip up, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of tender teriyaki chicken, fresh pineapple, and crisp cilantro creates a delightful balance of tastes and textures. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs and teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat, let cool, and slice into strips.
- Make the Pineapple Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix together diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with sliced chicken and top with pineapple salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tandoori Chicken Tacos with Cucumber Raita
Tandoori Chicken Tacos bring a burst of flavors that combine the spices of Indian cuisine with the easy-going vibe of taco night. The chicken is marinated in a vibrant blend of yogurt and tandoori spices, making it juicy and packed with flavor. Topped with a cool cucumber raita, these tacos are a delightful balance of spicy and refreshing!
Not only are these tacos delicious, but they are also simple to prepare. With just a few steps for marinating and cooking the chicken, you can have an impressive dish ready for your family or friends in no time. Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tandoori spice mix
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (for raita)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, tandoori spice mix, lemon juice, and salt. Add chicken strips and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Raita: In a small bowl, mix diced cucumber, yogurt, mint, and cilantro. Add salt to taste.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas in a pan. Fill each tortilla with the grilled chicken, and top with cucumber raita. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy your Tandoori Chicken Tacos with lemon wedges on the side!
Spicy Garlic Chicken Tacos with Slaw
These Spicy Garlic Chicken Tacos are a delightful twist on your traditional taco night. Bursting with flavors from marinated chicken and topped with a crunchy slaw, they offer a perfect blend of spice and freshness. The garlic adds a wonderful kick, making each bite satisfying and full of zest. Plus, they are quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
The combination of tender chicken and vibrant slaw creates a colorful presentation that’s as appetizing as it is delicious. Topped with fresh veggies, these tacos are sure to impress while being simple enough for anyone to make. Get ready to elevate your taco night!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly browned.
- Prepare the Slaw: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, carrots, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice and toss to combine.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the cooked chicken and top with the slaw mixture.
- Serve: Enjoy the tacos warm, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Mediterranean Chicken Tacos with Feta
These Mediterranean chicken tacos are a fresh twist on traditional taco night. Bursting with flavors from the Mediterranean, they combine tender chicken with zesty toppings for a delicious and satisfying meal. You’ll enjoy the creamy feta, crunchy veggies, and a hint of lime, making each bite a delightful experience.
This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. You can customize the toppings to fit your taste, ensuring everyone gets their favorite flavors in every taco!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken cooks, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, add a generous scoop of chicken, followed by cherry tomatoes, black olives, lettuce, and feta cheese. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle with parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an added zing. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired taco night!
Final Thoughts
Tacos are meant to be fun, flavorful, and a little messy—so don’t hold back! With these 13 chicken taco recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to keep taco night exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to something delicious, there’s a recipe here to match every mood and occasion. So heat up those tortillas, set out all the fixings, and get ready for a taco night that’s anything but ordinary. Your taste buds will thank you!