1-First Step: Start by combining all the marinade ingredients in a bowl: 4 tablespoons orange juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1.5 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1.5 tablespoons chili powder, 2 teaspoons cumin, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts to the bowl, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to let the flavors soak in. For dietary adaptations, use tofu here if going vegan, and marinate at the same temperature.

2-Second Step: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which helps maintain juiciness, especially if you’re using chicken breasts for a lower-calorie option.

3-Third Step: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for several minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender. Once rested, chop the chicken into small pieces. If adapting for gluten-free needs, double-check your grilling tools, and for low-calorie versions, focus on not adding extra oil.

4-Fourth Step: Warm the 24 mini corn tortillas on a dry grill or skillet for a few seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable. For the best results, layer two tortillas together for each taco to prevent them from breaking. If you’re making grilled chicken street tacos with fresh salsa, this is a great time to prepare your toppings like pico de gallo and cilantro.

5-Final Step: Assemble your tacos by topping the warmed tortillas with the chopped chicken, 2 cups of pico de gallo, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and a squeeze from the lime wedges. Add optional toppings like guacamole or hot sauce as desired, then serve immediately. For variations, if you’re vegan, use your plant-based protein here, and ensure gluten-free tortillas are used for that adaptation. The total time is about 25 minutes, making these grilled chicken street tacos with warm tortillas a quick family favorite. Explore more family-friendly recipes on our site for more ideas.