If you’re looking for a new taco recipe that’s bold, delicious, and packed with flavor, these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich and savory garlic butter honey BBQ sauce that has the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy. These tacos are a game-changer, and they’ve quickly become a favorite in our house.
What’s even better is that they’re so easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a casual taco night with friends, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or craving something that feels indulgent but isn’t too complicated, this recipe has got you covered. The beauty of these tacos lies in how the garlic butter sauce brings out the richness of the chicken, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the BBQ flavors. Top everything off with your favorite taco toppings, and you have a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Let me walk you through how to make these flavorful tacos, step by step, so you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this recipe. You probably already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen, and if not, they’re easy to find at any grocery store.
For the Chicken:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce:
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
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½ cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
For the Tacos:
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8 small flour or corn tortillas
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Toppings of choice: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Now that we have everything we need, let’s start cooking! I promise this will be an easy process with lots of flavorful rewards.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to get the chicken golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You should hear a nice sizzle as the chicken cooks, and the smell will start to fill your kitchen—it’s the best!
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry if the skillet has a little brown residue on the bottom; that’s where all the flavor is hiding, and we’re going to use it to our advantage in the next step.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. As the butter melts, add the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This is the moment when your kitchen will start to smell like heaven. But be careful—garlic can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it!
Next, add in the BBQ sauce and honey, and give it a good whisk until everything is well combined. If you like a bit of tanginess, you can also add the apple cider vinegar at this point. It’s totally optional, but it gives the sauce a little extra zing that complements the sweetness of the honey and the smokiness of the BBQ sauce.
Once the sauce is smooth and all mixed in, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Let everything simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and for the sauce to thicken up just a bit. The result is a chicken that’s coated in a luscious, sticky, and flavorful sauce that will have you going back for more.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
While your chicken is soaking up all that delicious sauce, it’s time to warm the tortillas. You can do this a few different ways. If you prefer, you can heat them in a dry skillet on medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or you can warm them on a griddle if you have one. If you’re using the oven, simply wrap the tortillas in foil and pop them in for about 10 minutes at 350°F.
No matter which method you choose, the goal is to make the tortillas soft and pliable so they can hold all the deliciousness you’re about to pile into them.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Now comes the fun part! Once your tortillas are warmed, it’s time to assemble your tacos. Start by dividing the garlic butter honey BBQ chicken evenly among the tortillas. You want each taco to have a generous portion of chicken so that every bite is packed with flavor.
Then, add your toppings. You can keep it simple with some shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, or go all out with sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, and a little cilantro for a fresh kick. Don’t forget to squeeze a little lime juice over the top—this adds the perfect burst of brightness to balance out all the richness of the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the tacos are assembled, they’re ready to be served. I like to serve these tacos with extra lime wedges on the side, just in case you want to squeeze a little more citrusy goodness on top. These tacos are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to a fun taco night with friends.
The combination of garlic, butter, honey, and BBQ sauce on the chicken creates a flavor explosion that is sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe. And trust me, they’ll want to make these again and again!
Tips for Perfecting Your Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
Now that you’ve got the basics of making these delicious Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos, let’s dive a little deeper into some extra tips and tricks to take your taco game to the next level. These little adjustments will help you perfect the recipe, ensuring you have juicy, flavorful chicken every time, and make your tacos even more customizable to suit your preferences.
Making the Chicken Even More Tender
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are often the go-to choice for quick taco recipes, chicken thighs can make these tacos even more tender and juicy. Chicken thighs have a higher fat content, so they stay moist and flavorful during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts will work perfectly fine, but don’t be afraid to experiment with thighs if you’re looking for something with a bit more richness.
Another great tip for tender chicken is to marinate it for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. If you have time, try marinating your chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This extra step will help the chicken absorb more flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
Enhancing the BBQ Sauce
The sauce is the star of these tacos, and there are plenty of ways to make it even better. While store-bought BBQ sauce works just fine, you can always add your personal touch to create a unique flavor profile. For example, try using a smoky BBQ sauce for extra depth, or a sweet variety if you prefer a more mellow flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a bit of hot sauce or chipotle peppers in adobo can bring some heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.
If you love a more tangy twist, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the BBQ sauce (as suggested in the recipe) can really elevate the flavor. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the butter and honey, bringing a nice balance to the tacos.
Perfecting Your Toppings
One of the great things about tacos is the versatility of toppings, and these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are no exception. While the recipe suggests some standard options like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado, feel free to get creative with your toppings.
If you want to add a bit more texture, crispy fried onions or pickled red onions are an amazing addition. They’ll give your tacos a nice crunch and a slight tang that pairs wonderfully with the sweet BBQ chicken.
For those who love a spicy kick, adding some jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can take the flavor to the next level. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more decadent, why not top your tacos with a dollop of guacamole or even a few crumbles of crispy bacon for a savory crunch? The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions
These tacos are filling on their own, but if you’re serving a crowd or looking to add some extra sides to make the meal even more hearty, consider pairing them with some tasty sides. Mexican street corn (elote) or a simple Mexican rice dish would be the perfect complement to these tacos. For a lighter option, a fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a tangy vinaigrette would add a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
For an extra burst of flavor, serve these tacos with a side of spicy salsa or pico de gallo. The fresh, zesty flavors will balance out the sweetness of the honey BBQ chicken and keep your taste buds dancing with every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Once you’ve got your chicken ready, your tortillas warmed up, and your toppings selected, it’s time to assemble these mouthwatering tacos. To make sure every taco is just right, here’s a little pro tip: try to layer the chicken evenly in the center of each tortilla. This will help balance the toppings and ensure that each bite is just as flavorful as the last.
If you want to serve a large group, consider setting up a taco bar. Lay out the tortillas, chicken, and all the toppings on the table and let everyone build their own tacos to suit their personal taste. It’s a fun, interactive way to serve dinner and allows everyone to customize their tacos exactly how they like them.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your tacos are assembled, they’re ready to be devoured! These tacos are best served immediately while the chicken is still hot and the tortillas are soft and warm. If you want to keep things warm for later, you can wrap the tacos in foil and keep them in the oven on a low heat setting, but honestly, I bet they won’t last long enough for that!
Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top, a little squeeze of lime, and maybe a dash of hot sauce if you’re into it. Each bite of these tacos is a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy, and the soft tortilla holds everything together beautifully.
FAQ and Conclusion
After walking through the recipe and sharing some helpful tips, I know you’re probably eager to get cooking. But before you grab your ingredients and start making these delicious Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos, let’s address some common questions that might pop up along the way. Whether you’re wondering about ingredient swaps, storage tips, or how to spice things up, I’ve got you covered.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and can make your tacos even juicier and more flavorful. They have a higher fat content than chicken breasts, which keeps them moist as they cook. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work perfectly well, but don’t be afraid to try chicken thighs for a richer taste.
2. What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
No worries! The apple cider vinegar is optional and mainly adds a tangy kick to the BBQ sauce. If you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it altogether. If you’d like a little extra acidity, you can substitute it with white vinegar, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice works well too. The honey and BBQ sauce will still bring plenty of flavor.
3. Can I make the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce in advance?
Yes, you can! If you’re prepping ahead, feel free to make the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it when you’re ready to use it, or even drizzle it on other dishes like grilled chicken, vegetables, or roasted potatoes. It’s a versatile sauce that you can use in many other meals!
4. What other toppings can I use for these tacos?
The beauty of tacos is that they’re super customizable! While shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado are classic choices, you can mix it up with any of your favorite toppings. Try adding crispy fried onions for some extra crunch, pickled red onions for a tangy twist, or even a dollop of guacamole for some added richness. For a spicy kick, jalapeños or hot sauce are great options.
5. Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make these tacos vegetarian by swapping the chicken for a plant-based protein. Grilled or sautéed mushrooms work wonderfully as a substitute for the chicken, as they have a savory, meaty texture. You could also use tofu or a veggie-based protein like soy crumbles or tempeh, depending on your preferences.
6. How do I store the leftovers?
If you have any leftover chicken or toppings, you can store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will stay good for about 3 days, while the tortillas are best eaten fresh. You can easily reheat the chicken on the stove or in the microwave. If you have leftover toppings like guacamole or sour cream, I’d recommend storing them separately to keep them fresh.
7. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
While these tacos are best served fresh, you can certainly prep components ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and make the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce the day before, storing them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, warm the chicken and sauce, heat up the tortillas, and assemble the tacos with your favorite toppings. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without much fuss on the day you plan to serve them.
Conclusion
There you have it—everything you need to know to make the most flavorful, juicy, and satisfying Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos! From cooking the chicken to creating that irresistible garlic butter honey BBQ sauce, these tacos are bound to become a family favorite. The combination of smoky BBQ, sweet honey, and garlic makes these tacos a perfect balance of savory and sweet, and the toppings are totally customizable to suit your personal taste.
Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or just craving a comforting meal, these tacos will hit the spot every time. Don’t forget to try adding a little heat with some hot sauce or pickled jalapeños if you like a bit of spice.
The best part? They’re incredibly versatile and easy to make, so don’t hesitate to play around with ingredients and flavors to make the recipe your own. I hope this recipe brings some extra joy to your taco nights. Be sure to share your experience with me in the comments, and let me know what variations you try. I’d love to hear how you make these tacos your own!
Happy cooking and enjoy every flavorful bite!
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Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
Description
These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy. Tender, juicy chicken is coated in a rich garlic butter honey BBQ sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Paired with your favorite taco toppings and wrapped in soft tortillas, these tacos are a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a balance of smoky BBQ, sweet honey, and zesty garlic, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
For the Tacos:
8 small flour or corn tortillas
Toppings of choice: Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
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 the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Warm the Tortillas
Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet, on a griddle, or wrapped in foil in the oven until they’re soft and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos
Divide the garlic butter honey BBQ chicken evenly among the warmed tortillas.
Top with your choice of toppings, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Notes
For an added kick, you can drizzle a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Feel free to customize your toppings based on your preferences. If you’re looking to make these tacos even more filling, consider adding black beans, corn, or a small scoop of guacamole. These tacos are also great for meal prepping—just store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
