Nothing beats the vibrant flavors and fresh textures of this Grilled Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of smoky grilled chicken, creamy and tangy spiced mayo, and a bright, zesty avocado salsa that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or planning a festive taco night with friends, these tacos deliver an irresistible combination that feels both comforting and exciting. Get ready to fire up the grill and enjoy a dish that’s bursting with layers of flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this dish. Each item is straightforward yet carefully chosen to bring out the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors that define these tacos.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they soak up the spices beautifully for smoky grilled goodness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices stick to the chicken while adding a smooth richness.
- 2 tsp chili powder: Brings a warm kick and deep flavor to the spice rub.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness essential to the grilled profile.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Earthy and aromatic, it lifts the flavor with its nutty undertones.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A mild punch of garlic that enhances without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Provides a sweet-savory base note to the spice mix.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but critical for seasoning every bite perfectly.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the spiced mayo that adds cool heat.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Brings brightness to the mayo and salsa alike, balancing richness with zing.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Used again in the mayo for a smoky layered flavor.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a bold heat kick in the mayo for those who love spice.
- 2 ripe avocados, diced: Creamy texture and buttery flavor are essential for the salsa.
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped: Offers crispness and a touch of sharpness in the salsa.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered: Sweet and juicy, balancing the creaminess with freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: The herbaceous finish that lightens and freshens the salsa.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Ensures the avocado salsa stays vibrant and flavorful.
- Salt to taste: Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas: The perfect handheld vessel for the flavorful fillings.
- Lime wedges (optional): For serving with an extra squeeze of tangy freshness.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by mixing olive oil together with chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This spice blend is the key to infusing the chicken thighs with vibrant flavor. Rub the seasoned mixture generously over each piece of chicken, making sure every inch is coated. This not only enhances taste but also creates a deliciously charred crust when grilled.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The direct heat caramelizes the spices and seals in juicy flavor. Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes—this is crucial to keep it juicy. Afterwards, slice the chicken into strips ready for your tacos.
Step 3: Make the Spiced Mayo
While the chicken rests, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This creamy sauce adds a luscious, smoky, and slightly spicy layer that ties the whole taco together. It’s a simple mix that instantly elevates the dish with its tangy, rich texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
In a fresh bowl, combine diced avocados, finely chopped red onion, quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss gently to avoid mashing the avocado, but ensure everything is evenly coated with the bright lime dressing. This salsa adds freshness, creaminess, and a pop of color that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm your tortillas for 10 to 15 seconds on the grill or stovetop until just pliable and fragrant. Then build each taco by layering sliced grilled chicken, a generous drizzle of the spiced mayo, and a spoonful of the avocado salsa. Serve immediately, optionally with lime wedges for a juicy extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Enhancing your tacos with simple garnishes like extra cilantro leaves, thinly sliced radishes, or pickled jalapeños adds color and bursts of texture. Lime wedges are a must-have to squeeze over your tacos just before eating, bringing out the bright, fresh notes in the dish.
Side Dishes
Round out your taco feast with sides that complement the flavors without stealing the spotlight. A crisp Mexican street corn salad, refreshing cabbage slaw, or even a light black bean and corn salad will add balance and variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun gathering, serve the ingredients buffet-style, letting guests build their Grilled Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa Recipe just the way they like. Alternatively, stack full tacos on a colorful platter with vibrant garnishes for an inviting centerpiece that everyone will gravitate toward.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken, spiced mayo, and avocado salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The chicken will keep well for 3 to 4 days, and the salsa is best consumed within 1 to 2 days to avoid browning of the avocado.
Freezing
The grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container. However, avoid freezing the avocado salsa or spiced mayo, as their texture and flavor can suffer upon thawing.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or a microwave until warmed through. Add fresh avocado salsa and spiced mayo just before serving to keep their vibrant flavors intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs stay juicier and more flavorful on the grill, chicken breasts work fine—just be careful not to overcook since they tend to dry out faster.
Is the cayenne pepper in the spiced mayo necessary?
It’s optional and can be adjusted based on your heat preference. If you like mild flavors, skip it or reduce the amount for a gentler kick.
Can I make the avocado salsa without cilantro?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, substitute with fresh parsley or basil for a different but equally fresh herbaceous twist.
What type of tortillas is best for this recipe?
Both corn and flour tortillas work wonderfully. Corn tortillas have a traditional flavor that pairs well, but flour tortillas add a softer, chewier texture—choose according to your taste.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Swap chicken for grilled seasoned portobello mushrooms or tofu, and use vegan mayonnaise. Keep the avocado salsa as is—full of fresh, plant-based goodness.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something magical about these Grilled Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa Recipe that keeps you coming back for more. The lively combination of smoky spices, creamy tang, and fresh salsa is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that suits any occasion. I hope you have as much fun making and eating these tacos as I do sharing them. So grab your grill, gather your ingredients, and dive into this flavorful fiesta—you won’t regret it!
Print
Grilled Chicken Tacos with Spiced Mayo and Avocado Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Grilled Chicken Tacos feature juicy, spice-rubbed chicken thighs grilled to perfection, topped with a creamy spiced mayo and fresh avocado salsa. Ready in just 30 minutes, this vibrant and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spiced Mayo:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
To Serve:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs to coat thoroughly.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Then slice the chicken into strips for the tacos.
- Make the Spiced Mayo: Whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Avocado Salsa: In a mixing bowl, gently combine diced avocados, finely chopped red onion, quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss carefully to evenly coat all ingredients without mashing the avocado.
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on the grill or stovetop for 10-15 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Spread a layer of spiced mayo on each warmed tortilla. Top with sliced grilled chicken and spoon avocado salsa over the top.
- Serve: Serve the assembled tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the spiced mayo.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or flour tortillas for a softer texture.
- Allow the grilled chicken to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- If fresh cilantro isn’t available, you can substitute with fresh parsley for a milder flavor.
- Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble tacos fresh before serving.
