Chicken Tacos Recipe

Time1h 10m
Serves4

with organic BBQ SMOKED chicken

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Smoked BBQ Chicken

Creamy Avocado Sauce

Method

Smoked BBQ Chicken

1

Prepare marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together organic BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.

2

Marinate chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours. If short on time, allow 10–15 minutes at room temperature to absorb flavors.

3

Cook chicken (smoked or stovetop)

If you have a smoker: preheat smoker to 225–250°F (107–121°C). Place marinated thighs on the smoker and smoke until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 1.25–1.5 hours depending on thickness. Brush additional BBQ sauce on the chicken in the last 10 minutes. If you don't have a smoker: heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tsp oil, sear thighs 3–4 minutes per side until browned, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 8–12 minutes until internal temperature 165°F (74°C). Brush with extra BBQ sauce before removing from heat.

4

Rest and shred

Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5–8 minutes. Using two forks or your hands, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss shredded chicken with any reserved BBQ sauce to keep moist and smoky.

Creamy Avocado Sauce

5

Scoop the avocado flesh into a small bowl or blender. Add Greek yogurt, lime juice, water, salt, and black pepper. Blend or mash until smooth and creamy, adding the teaspoon of water as needed to reach a spoonable consistency. Taste and adjust salt or lime as desired.

Taco Assembly

6

Warm tortillas

Warm tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 20–30 seconds per side, or wrap in foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Keep wrapped to stay warm.

7

Assemble tacos

Place a warmed tortilla on a plate. Add about 2 oz (roughly 2–3 tbs) of shredded smoked BBQ chicken, a small handful of thinly sliced red cabbage, a drizzle (about 1 tbs) of creamy avocado sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. Add pickled jalapeños if using. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

8

Finish and serve

Serve tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Offer extra BBQ sauce and avocado sauce at the table. Enjoy immediately while warm.

More from Wharf Southern Kitchen & Whiskey Bar