Description

Bold, smoky, and straight-up irresistible—these Charred Chile Marinated Grilled Chicken Tacos are your new go-to for quick dinners, weekend cookouts, or when you’re craving something unforgettable. Juicy grilled chicken soaked in a smoky chile marinade, topped with vibrant garnishes, and wrapped in warm tortillas? Yes, please. This easy recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor home and fits right into your lineup of dinner ideas, quick weeknight meals, or even meal prep staples. Whether you’re after a satisfying lunch, an easy dinner, or flavorful food ideas, this one’s a guaranteed winner.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 dried guajillo chiles
2 dried ancho chiles
3 garlic cloves
1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano (preferably Mexican)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 small corn tortillas
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup diced red onions or pickled onions
Green salsa or tomatillo salsa for topping

Instructions

Remove stems and seeds from dried chiles. Toast in a dry skillet until fragrant, then soak in hot water for 10 minutes.
Blend soaked chiles with garlic, orange juice, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Coat chicken thighs in marinade. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until charred and internal temp reaches 165°F.
Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Warm tortillas over an open flame or in a skillet.
Assemble tacos: Add chicken, top with onions, cilantro, and salsa. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes