Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos – Sweet & Savory Delight

These Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are packed with flavor! Juicy, seasoned chicken is cooked to perfection, then tossed in a rich garlic butter honey BBQ sauce. Wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with your favorite garnishes, these tacos make the perfect meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)

For the garlic butter sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

For serving:

• Small flour or corn tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Diced onions or pickled onions
• Crumbled cotija cheese or shredded cheddar

this RECIPE

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   • Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
   • In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
2. Cook the chicken:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Stir in honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Combine:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Let simmer for 2 minutes to absorb flavors.
5. Assemble the tacos:
   • Warm the tortillas and fill them with the saucy chicken.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, onions, cotija cheese, and a squeeze of lime.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Use boneless, skinless thighs for juicier chicken.
• Adjust honey and BBQ sauce to taste add more honey for sweetness or BBQ sauce for smokiness.
• Can be made ahead: store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Helpful Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos

1. Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide juicier results, but chicken breasts work well if cooked carefully. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

2. Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the seasoning for at least 15 minutes before cooking. If you have time, marinate for a few hours to deepen the flavor.

3. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use medium-high heat to sear the chicken, locking in juices while getting a nice golden-brown crust. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) when done.

4. Enhance the Sauce: For extra depth, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce to balance the sweetness. Want it spicier? Toss in red pepper flakes or chipotle powder.

5. Use Warm Tortillas: Lightly warm your tortillas on a dry skillet or open flame for a soft, pliable texture that won’t break when assembling.

6. Customize Your Toppings: Fresh cilantro, pickled onions, avocado slices, or shredded cabbage add texture and freshness. A drizzle of lime crema or sour cream enhances the tacos.

7. Meal Prep Friendly: Cook the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little water or butter to revive the sauce.

8. Make It Low-Carb: Swap tortillas for lettuce wraps or serve over a salad for a healthier option.

These simple tips ensure bold, balanced flavors and the perfect texture in every bite!

Conservation and Storage Tips for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it from drying out, add a small spoonful of extra sauce before storing.

2. Freezing for Later: If making ahead, let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze in portion-sized bags for easy reheating.

3. Reheating Properly:

• Stovetop (Best Method): Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or butter until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to prevent drying.
• Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.

4. Storing Toppings & Tortillas:

• Fresh toppings like cilantro, onions, or avocado should be stored separately and added just before serving.
• Tortillas stay fresh at room temperature in a sealed bag for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for 2–3 weeks or freeze for 2 months.

5. Meal Prep Tip: If prepping in advance, cook and store the chicken separately from tortillas and toppings. Assemble tacos just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos

1. The Perfect Taco Toppings: Enhance your tacos with fresh cilantro, diced onions, sliced avocado, pickled red onions, or shredded cabbage for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of cotija cheese or shredded cheddar adds a delicious salty contrast.

2. Drizzle on a Sauce: Elevate your tacos with a lime crema (sour cream mixed with lime juice), chipotle mayo, or a spicy ranch dressing. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brings out the flavors.

3. Pair with the Right Sides:

• Mexican Rice: A classic side that balances the bold flavors of the tacos.
• Black Beans or Refried Beans: Adds heartiness to the meal.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing.
• Guacamole & Salsa: Serve with tortilla chips for a complete meal.

4. Light & Fresh Pairings: For a healthier option, pair with a simple side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or a fruit salsa made with mango, pineapple, or strawberries for a sweet contrast.

5. Beverage Pairings: Complement your tacos with refreshing drinks like classic margaritas, iced horchata, or a citrusy agua fresca. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling lime water or iced tea pairs beautifully.

6. Make It a Taco Bar: If serving a crowd, set up a DIY taco bar with all the toppings so guests can build their perfect taco.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breasts work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them.

2. How can I make these tacos spicier?
Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken seasoning or sauce. You can also top the tacos with sliced jalapeños or a spicy crema.

3. Can I cook the chicken in the oven or air fryer instead?
Absolutely!

• Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket once.

4. What’s the best way to warm tortillas?
Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or over an open flame for 30 seconds per side until lightly charred. You can also microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20–30 seconds.

5. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling. Warm tortillas and add toppings just before serving.

6. What’s a good substitute for BBQ sauce?
Try using a mix of tomato paste, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika for a quick homemade version.

7. Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Yes! Use corn tortillas and ensure your BBQ sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, smoky, and buttery flavors, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or a taco night with friends and family, these tacos are sure to impress.

What makes this recipe special is its balance of bold flavors—the garlic butter adds richness, the honey brings a touch of sweetness, and the BBQ sauce ties everything together with a smoky, tangy kick. Plus, the juicy, well-seasoned chicken ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

These tacos are also highly customizable! You can switch up the protein, adjust the spice level, or experiment with different toppings to match your taste. Add fresh avocado, pickled onions, or a drizzle of lime crema for a fresh and vibrant twist. Serve them with your favorite sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

The best part? This dish is easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making it a great option for busy schedules. Leftovers store well and can be quickly reheated for a delicious meal the next day.

So why not give these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos a try? With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality taco experience right at home.

Get ready to take your taco game to the next level—these will definitely become a family favorite!

More Delicious Recipes to Try:

If you love these Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos, you might also enjoy:

• Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp Tacos – A seafood twist with bold flavors.
• Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Wings – Perfect for game nights and parties.
• Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce – A must-try topping for tacos!
• BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders – A smoky, tangy treat.

Find the full Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos recipe here: Click to View

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