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BBQ Chicken Tacos

Succulent BBQ-marinated chicken, seared to perfection, is nestled inside warm tortillas and layered with black beans, sweet corn, ripe avocado, fresh red onion, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy cilantro lime sauce. These BBQ Chicken Tacos are a vibrant, flavorful main course ideal for any casual meal or gathering.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bbq chicken tacos
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 avocado peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 15 oz can corn drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes chopped
  • Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • 15 oz can black or pinto beans rinsed and drained
  • 12 corn tortillas or small flour tortillas
  • 1/3 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2/3 cup barbecue sauce divided

Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

Instructions

  • Place the chicken in a zip-top bag and add 1/3 cup of the barbecue sauce. Seal and refrigerate to marinate for 1 to 3 hours.
  • Prepare the cilantro lime sauce by whisking together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until needed.
  • Preheat a grill and lightly oil the grates or use non-stick cooking spray. Grill the marinated chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from heat, brush with the remaining barbecue sauce, and let rest for 5 minutes before chopping or shredding.
  • Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet until pliable.
  • To assemble each taco, layer a portion of the chopped chicken into a tortilla, then top with corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and sliced avocado. Drizzle with additional barbecue sauce and a generous spoonful of the cilantro lime sauce.
  • Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
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Notes

  • Serving Size: Approximately 3 tacos per person.
  • Corn Options: Canned, frozen, or freshly grilled corn all work well.
  • Vegetable Additions: Enhance with grilled zucchini, lettuce, or olives as desired.
  • Vegetarian Variation: Substitute marinated extra firm tofu for the chicken.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free BBQ sauce and opt for corn tortillas.
  • Crockpot Method: Cook chicken in BBQ sauce on low for 4–6 hours, then slice or shred.
  • Make Ahead Tips: Marinate the chicken and prep the toppings in advance. Store components separately in the refrigerator.
  • Freezing Instructions: Store chopped or shredded chicken in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months.