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
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 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
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute , until fragrant.
- Stir in the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using). Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- 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
- 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
- Place a generous portion of the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken onto each tortilla.
- Top with shredded cabbage, diced red onion, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
- 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
- Serve the tacos immediately while warm, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for drizzling if desired.
- 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!