Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Tacos

This garlic butter honey BBQ chicken taco recipe transforms ordinary taco night into something extraordinary. The combination of sweet honey, smoky BBQ sauce, and rich garlic butter creates an irresistible coating for juicy chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I first made these tacos when I was craving something different from our usual taco routine. My family was instantly hooked, and now they're requested at least twice a month in our home.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs the thighs offer more flavor and stay juicier
• Olive oil helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and prevents sticking
• Salt and pepper essential for bringing out all the other flavors
• Paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color
• Garlic powder provides an aromatic base flavor in the chicken seasoning
• Onion powder adds depth to the seasoning blend
• Chili powder optional but gives a nice warmth without overwhelming heat
• Unsalted butter creates a rich, silky sauce base
• Fresh garlic nothing compares to the aromatic punch of freshly minced garlic
• Honey adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize
• BBQ sauce choose your favorite style to personalize the flavor profile
• Lemon juice brightens all the flavors and balances the sweetness
• Tortillas flour work best for holding the saucy filling, but corn add authentic flavor
• Toppings fresh ingredients like lettuce, cheese, onion and cilantro provide texture and contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken

Cut chicken into even pieces about 1-inch thick for even cooking. In a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder if using. Use your hands to massage the seasonings into every piece ensuring complete coverage. Let sit for at least 5 minutes to absorb flavors.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until a golden crust forms. Flip each piece and cook another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 3 minutes before slicing.

Create the Sauce

Using the same skillet with all those flavorful bits from the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for exactly 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Immediately add honey, BBQ sauce, and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Slice the rested chicken against the grain into thin strips or shred with two forks for maximum sauce coverage. Return chicken to the skillet with the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Let it simmer for 1 minute to allow the chicken to absorb some of the sauce.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for 15-30 seconds per side or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds. Layer each tortilla with shredded lettuce, the saucy chicken, shredded cheese, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the top.

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The honey in this recipe is truly transformative. I started using local wildflower honey after getting some from our farmers market, and it adds subtle floral notes that perfectly complement the smoky BBQ sauce. It reminds me of summer cookouts with my family, but in a convenient indoor format we can enjoy year-round.

Make-Ahead Options

This recipe works beautifully for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and sauce up to 3 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave when ready to serve. The flavor actually improves as it sits, allowing the garlic and honey to further infuse the chicken.

Perfect Pairings

These tacos are substantial enough to stand alone, but they pair wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp cabbage slaw with lime dressing offers refreshing contrast to the rich chicken. Mexican street corn or cilantro lime rice makes an excellent accompaniment for a more filling meal. For beverages, try a cold Mexican beer or a simple margarita to complement the sweet and smoky flavors.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce becomes too thick when reheating, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to loosen it up. For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the garlic or incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper into the chicken seasoning. And if you find the sauce too sweet, balance it with an extra squeeze of lemon or lime juice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I make the tacos spicier?

Adjust the chili powder or add diced jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce variety.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly and add extra juiciness to the tacos.

→ What can I use to substitute flour tortillas?

Feel free to use corn tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

→ What type of cheese pairs best?

Cheddar or Monterey Jack are great choices, as they melt beautifully and complement the flavors. Experiment with your favorite cheese.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

You can cook the chicken and prepare the toppings ahead of time. Simply reheat the chicken and assemble the tacos when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm the chicken before assembling the tacos.