Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe

These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are a mouthwatering fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Juicy chicken is coated in a rich garlic butter honey BBQ sauce, then tucked into warm tortillas and topped with fresh toppings for a taco experience that’s both comforting and exciting!

Serves: 4-6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs , cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste

For the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lime juice for brightness)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)

For the Tacos:

• 8-10 small flour or corn tortillas , warmed
• 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges , for serving
• Crumbled cotija cheese or feta (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute , until fragrant.
2. Stir in the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using). Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes , allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

1. Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet, on a griddle, or wrapped in foil in the oven until soft and pliable.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Place a generous portion of the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken onto each tortilla.
2. Top with shredded cabbage, diced red onion, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
3. Add crumbled cotija cheese or feta if desired, and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the tacos immediately while warm, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for drizzling if desired.
2. Pair with a side of chips and salsa, Mexican street corn, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Customize the heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Meal prep: Store the chicken and sauce mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat and assemble tacos as needed.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Nutritional Information (per taco, serves 10):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fat: ~9g

Enjoy these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos as a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night of the week. The combination of sweet, smoky, and garlicky flavors makes them irresistible!