BBQ chicken tacos are seriously one of my favorite go-to meals! They’re so popular for good reason—who doesn’t love the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ chicken wrapped in a warm tortilla? It’s like a fiesta in your mouth! Plus, they’re super easy to make, which is a huge win for me. I remember the first time I made them for friends; they couldn’t believe how quick and delicious they were! The combination of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and crunchy coleslaw is just perfection. Trust me, once you try these BBQ chicken tacos, you’ll be adding them to your weekly rotation! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (I love using rotisserie chicken for extra flavor!)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version!)
- 8 corn tortillas (Soft and warm is key—trust me, they make a difference!)
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (Adds that perfect crunch—don’t skip this part!)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion (For a little kick and color—so good!)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (Fresh herbs really brighten everything up!)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (A squeeze of lime brings all the flavors together!)
How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Tacos
- First things first, grab a bowl and mix together your shredded cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken is coated nicely! I usually let it sit for a couple of minutes to soak up all that delicious flavor.
- While that’s happening, it’s time to warm those corn tortillas. Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re pliable and just starting to get a little toasty. This step is essential for that perfect taco experience!
- Now, let’s build our tacos! Take a warm tortilla and add a generous scoop of that BBQ chicken mixture right in the center. Don’t be shy—load it up!
- Next, top your chicken with a handful of coleslaw mix and sprinkle on some diced red onion for that extra crunch. Seriously, the textures here are everything!
- Finish it off with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. This really brightens up the flavors and makes each bite pop!
- And voila! These BBQ chicken tacos are ready to serve. I like to present them on a platter with extra lime wedges on the side for those who want an extra zing.
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values for these delicious BBQ chicken tacos. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But here’s what you can expect:
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 25g
These tacos not only taste amazing but also pack a decent amount of protein, making them a satisfying meal option. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Packed with flavor from tender BBQ chicken and zesty toppings.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend gathering.
- Versatile: customize with your favorite toppings or sauces.
- Kid-friendly and a hit with taco lovers of all ages!
- Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy all week!
- Gluten-free option—just double-check your tortillas!
Tips for Success
- Use quality BBQ sauce: The sauce is the star of the show, so pick one that you absolutely love! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors, like smoky or spicy varieties.
- Grill the chicken: If you have the time, grilling your chicken adds a delightful char and extra depth of flavor. Just shred it after it’s cooked, and mix it with your BBQ sauce!
- Warm tortillas properly: Make sure to warm your tortillas just enough to make them pliable. You can also wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and keep them warm in the oven—this keeps them soft and ready for filling!
- Customize the toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add sliced jalapeños for heat, avocado for creaminess, or even some pickled red onions for an extra zing!
- Don’t overload your tacos: While it’s tempting to pile everything on, keeping it balanced will ensure your tacos don’t fall apart. A little goes a long way!
- Serve with sides: Pair your tacos with some chips and salsa or a refreshing salad to elevate the meal experience!
Variations
One of the best things about BBQ chicken tacos is how versatile they are! You can easily switch things up to keep your taste buds excited. Here are some fun ideas to enhance your BBQ chicken tacos:
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shredded pork or even beef brisket for a different flavor profile. You could also try using grilled shrimp for a seafood twist!
- Spicy BBQ Sauce: If you like a little kick, choose a spicy BBQ sauce or mix in some hot sauce to your regular sauce for an extra punch.
- Toppings Galore: Mix and match your toppings! Try adding sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess, diced tomatoes for freshness, or even crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Fruit Salsa: Top your tacos with a fruity salsa—mango or pineapple salsa adds a sweet contrast to the smoky BBQ flavor. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before adding your coleslaw. A little melted cheese can take these tacos to the next level!
- Herb Variations: Not a fan of cilantro? Try fresh parsley, green onions, or even dill for a different herbaceous note.
- Crunchy Additions: For an extra crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips or fried onions on top right before serving. It’s a delightful surprise in every bite!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your mood or the ingredients you have on hand. The sky’s the limit when it comes to creating your perfect BBQ chicken taco!
Serving Suggestions
To really elevate your BBQ chicken tacos and make it a complete meal, I’ve got some fantastic serving suggestions that pair perfectly with those smoky, tangy flavors!
- Chips and Salsa: You can’t go wrong with a classic! Serve some crunchy tortilla chips alongside a fresh salsa—whether it’s a zesty pico de gallo or a sweet mango salsa, it’s the perfect starter to get everyone in the mood!
- Mexican Street Corn: Elote is a fabulous side! Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder brings an irresistible flavor that complements the tacos beautifully.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans or even black beans make for a hearty side option. They’re filling and add a nice, rich texture to your meal.
- Avocado Salad: A light avocado salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lime dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the tacos. So bright and tasty!
- Coleslaw on the Side: If you love the coleslaw in your tacos, why not serve a bit more on the side? It’s a fantastic way to add extra crunch and flavor!
- Watermelon Feta Salad: This sweet and savory salad is a summer favorite! The juicy watermelon combined with salty feta and fresh mint is so refreshing and pairs wonderfully with BBQ.
- Spicy Pickles: For those who love a little heat, serve some spicy pickles or jalapeño slices on the side. They’re a fun, tangy addition that ups the flavor factor!
Mix and match these sides based on the vibe you’re going for. Trust me, these suggestions will make your BBQ chicken taco night a hit! Enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep those delicious BBQ chicken tacos fresh for later! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), here’s how to store them properly:
- Storing Leftovers: First, let the tacos cool down to room temperature. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them from drying out in the fridge. They’ll be good for about 2–3 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: If you really want to save them for a rainy day, you can freeze the BBQ chicken filling separately from the tortillas. Just make sure to store the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Now, let’s get to reheating those tasty tacos to bring back that fresh, warm goodness!
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, pop the tacos in the microwave. Just remove any toppings (like coleslaw) first, then cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking to make sure they’re warmed through. But be careful, they can get a little steamy!
- Skillet: For the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating on a skillet. Heat a little oil over medium heat, add the taco filling and warm for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can also warm the tortillas this way for that fresh, toasty taste!
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the tacos in foil to keep them from drying out. Heat for about 10–15 minutes, or until everything is warmed through. This method is perfect if you’ve got a few to reheat at once!
Once they’re warmed up, feel free to add any fresh toppings you like. Enjoy your BBQ chicken tacos again and again, because they’re just that good! Happy eating!
FAQs
Can I use leftover BBQ chicken for these tacos?
Absolutely! In fact, using leftover BBQ chicken is one of my favorite shortcuts. Just shred the chicken and mix it with a bit more BBQ sauce to keep it saucy and flavorful. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers!
What type of tortillas are best for BBQ chicken tacos?
I personally love corn tortillas for their authentic flavor and texture, but you can absolutely use flour tortillas if that’s your preference. Just make sure they’re warmed up well before filling to keep them pliable!
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the BBQ chicken filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up when you’re ready to serve. I recommend waiting to assemble the tacos until just before serving to keep those tortillas nice and fresh!
What can I serve with BBQ chicken tacos?
Great question! Some tasty options include chips and salsa, Mexican street corn, or a fresh avocado salad. These sides balance the smoky flavors of the tacos and make it a complete meal!
Are BBQ chicken tacos gluten-free?
Yes, they can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free corn tortillas and double-check your BBQ sauce for any hidden gluten. It’s always good to check the labels to be safe!
BBQ Chicken Tacos: 6 Flavorsome Tips You Must Try
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy and delicious BBQ chicken tacos.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce.
- Warm the corn tortillas on a skillet.
- Add BBQ chicken to each tortilla.
- Top with coleslaw mix and red onion.
- Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Notes
- Use grilled chicken for added flavor.
- Adjust BBQ sauce to your taste.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: bbq chicken tacos, tacos, chicken tacos
