I have always been a fan of tacos, but there is something about Chicken Al Pastor Tacos that truly captures my heart. The combination of marinated chicken, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas creates a delicious experience that I can never resist. In this post, I will share my Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe that is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor.
What is Chicken Al Pastor?
Chicken Al Pastor is a Mexican dish inspired by the traditional pork version. It features marinated chicken that is cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma. The chicken is seasoned with spices and often paired with pineapple, giving it a sweet and savory flavor.
Why You Will Love Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe
This Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. It is flavorful, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, this recipe allows you to make it just the way you like it.
Ingredients for Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Chicken Marinade Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
Taco Assembly Ingredients:
How to Make Chicken Al Pastor Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
To start, I mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. The orange juice and pineapple juice add a sweet tang that complements the spices perfectly. I then add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, I preheat my grill or skillet over medium-high heat. I cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. The smell of the spices wafting through my kitchen is simply irresistible! After cooking, I let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken is resting, I warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. I only need to heat them for about 30 seconds on each side. This step makes the tortillas soft and pliable, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Now comes the fun part! I take a warm tortilla and add a generous portion of the sliced chicken. Then, I top it with diced pineapple, chopped onion, and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime juice adds a refreshing zing, and if I’m feeling adventurous, I might drizzle some salsa or hot sauce on top.
Tips for the Best Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe
- Use Quality Chicken: I always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender during cooking.
- Marinate Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Grill for Flavor: Grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the tacos. If you don’t have a grill, a skillet works just fine.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, radishes, or shredded cheese.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Al Pastor Tacos are great on their own, but I love serving them with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans. You can also serve a fresh salad or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave.
Nutritional Information (Per Taco)
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information for one Chicken Al Pastor Taco:
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Variations of Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe
If you want to switch things up, consider these variations:
- Shrimp Al Pastor: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled vegetables or jackfruit for a meatless version.
- Spicy Chicken Al Pastor: Add sliced jalapeños to the marinade for extra heat.
This Chicken Al Pastor Tacos Recipe has become a staple in my home. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m cooking for my family or hosting friends, these tacos never fail to impress. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do!