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This three-ingredient grilled chicken is my go to when I need something fast fresh and packed with flavor but do not want to pull out half my spice cabinet. With just olive oil taco seasoning and chicken you can have tender juicy meat that tastes like you spent hours on it. It is a recipe I fall back on for summer cookouts last minute dinners and even meal prep when my week looks packed.
I threw this together the first time on a night when I had zero energy it was a life saver and now even the picky eaters in my family ask for it by name
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: about two pounds they stay juicier than breasts and are more forgiving on the grill look for organic or air chilled if possible
- Taco seasoning: one ounce packet my personal favorite is the Whole Foods 365 brand which has the perfect saltiness Simply Organic is another top pick if using a salt free or lower salt blend you may want to sprinkle on a bit of flaky salt after grilling
- Olive oil: three tablespoons adds moisture helps seasoning stick and gives that craveable char light extra virgin or a robust variety both work just avoid flavorless oils
Step by Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs in a roomy bowl and pour over the olive oil then sprinkle in your favorite taco seasoning mix use tongs or clean hands to toss thoroughly each piece should be evenly coated and glistening cover with a lid or plastic wrap and chill in the fridge from one hour up to forty eight hours for flavor depth but you can grill right away if in a hurry
- Heat the Grill:
- Turn on your grill to high heat aiming for about five hundred twenty five degrees let it preheat for twenty minutes meanwhile clean the grates well to avoid sticking then cover again to ensure the grill is truly hot before you begin cooking
- Grill the Chicken:
- Lay marinated chicken thighs directly on hot grill grates close the lid and leave undisturbed for four to five minutes so those perfect grill marks form flip each piece and continue grilling covered for another four to five minutes or until a thermometer reads at least one hundred sixty five degrees at the thickest part transfer the chicken to a platter and let it rest at least five minutes which seals in all the juices taste and finish with a pinch of sea salt if your taco seasoning needs it
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The taco seasoning is truly the star here I love testing new blends sometimes even mixing my own it amazes me how such a simple shortcut makes the chicken taste restaurant worthy I will always remember my youngest proudly announcing that this was the best chicken he had ever had
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days The chicken is just as tender reheated or sliced cold for salads You can also freeze cooked pieces for up to three months They defrost overnight in the fridge or can be warmed gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer chicken breasts they will work just as well though watch closely as they cook a little faster For seasoning try a homemade taco spice or other blends such as Cajun barbecue or Greek Just be mindful of salt levels as some mixes are saltier than others Avocado oil or sunflower oil are fine swaps for olive oil if needed
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm tortillas and salsa for easy tacos or pile onto rice bowls with avocado and grilled vegetables Shred the chicken for burritos or salads Sometimes I use leftovers for nachos or quick wraps My personal trick is to drizzle with lime juice just before serving for extra pop
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Cultural Context
This technique is rooted in the practical home cooking tradition of using supermarket shortcuts like spice packets but jazzing them up with good technique Grilled chicken with a punchy seasoning mix draws inspiration from Tex Mex and Southwestern flavors a nod to backyard gatherings all over America
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly. Adjust grilling time to avoid drying out the meat.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
A marination time of at least 1 hour is ideal for maximum flavor, but it can be grilled immediately if needed. Up to 48 hours in the fridge is also suitable.
- → Which taco seasoning brands work best?
Whole Foods 365 and Simply Organic are great choices. Adjust any added salt based on the seasoning's salt content.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
Grill for 4–5 minutes per side over high heat. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and juices run clear.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 48 hours before grilling. Leftovers also keep well refrigerated.