Name: Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1 small head green cabbage, very thinly sliced; 4 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 jalapeno peppers, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 10 ounces corn, cooked if frozen; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 (9oz) bag chili cheese Fritos; 2 cups fresh cilantro; 1 garlic clove; 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey; ⅔ cup Greek yogurt; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 27 reviews

If you’re searching for a dish that bursts with lively flavors, vibrant textures, and just the right amount of smoky heat, then Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw is about to become your new favorite. This recipe masterfully combines juicy, spiced grilled chicken thighs with a crisp, colorful slaw packed with black beans, corn, fresh veggies, and the unbeatable crunch of chili cheese Fritos. Topped off with a creamy cilantro lime dressing that brightens every bite, this dish is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and crunchy, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any meal.

Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw is refreshingly straightforward, but each component plays a crucial role in delivering bold taste, texture, and eye-catching color to the plate. Fresh vegetables bring the crunch and brightness, spices add warmth and depth, and the creamy dressing ties it all together beautifully.

Green cabbage: Thinly sliced to add a crisp and refreshing base for the slaw.
Green onions: Provide a mild, zesty bite that balances the richness of the chicken.
Jalapeno peppers: Diced for just the right amount of heat and a pop of color.
Bell pepper: Adds subtle sweetness and vibrant red or orange hues.
Black beans: Rinsed and drained, packed with protein and fiber for heartiness.
Corn: Cooked kernels bring a juicy sweetness and contrasting texture.
Fresh cilantro: Chopped finely, it infuses the dish with an herbaceous, citrusy freshness.
Chili cheese Fritos: The secret weapon for irresistible crunch and bold flavor in the slaw.
Cilantro lime dressing ingredients: Fresh cilantro, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, honey, Greek yogurt, kosher salt, and pepper combine for a creamy, tangy finish.
Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling and soaking up the spice rub.
Spices for chicken: Smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder create a smoky, warm seasoning.
Olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper: Basic but essential seasoning and marinade elements to bring out the ingredients’ best.

How to Make Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Frito Slaw

Start by combining your thinly sliced green cabbage, green onions, jalapeno peppers, bell pepper, black beans, corn, and freshly chopped cilantro in a big bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors and drizzle half of your creamy cilantro lime dressing over the veggies. Give everything a good toss until the slaw is evenly coated with that light, tangy dressing. You can add more dressing as you see fit to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing

While the slaw flavors mingle, blend together fresh cilantro, a garlic clove, lime juice, olive oil, honey, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper in a food processor until perfectly creamy. This dressing is what transforms the slaw from ordinary to unforgettable with its lively zest and smooth texture. Keep some extra dressing reserved for drizzling later or tossing the slaw to taste.

Step 3: Season and Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to high heat and let it get fully hot for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, coat the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then generously season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, and garlic powder. Once the grill is smoking, place the chicken directly on the grates and close the lid. Grill each side for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes to lock in all those juices before slicing or chopping.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Right before you’re ready to eat, toss the chili cheese Fritos into the slaw for that addictive crunch that elevates every bite. You can serve your grilled chicken on the side or chop it up and mix it directly into the slaw for a truly integrated flavor experience. Either way, this Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw comes alive with texture and taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

How to Serve Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really take this dish over the top. Think extra chopped cilantro for herbaceous brightness, a wedge of lime to squeeze over for zing, or even a dollop of creamy avocado to mellow the heat. Thinly sliced radishes add a peppery crunch that pairs beautifully with the slaw’s textures, while a sprinkle of cotija cheese can add a salty, crumbly finish.

Side Dishes

This dish is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with light and complementary sides. Consider serving with warm corn tortillas for DIY tacos or alongside a simple black bean salad for extra protein. Fresh Mexican street corn or grilled jalapeno-lime rice can also amplify the fiesta vibe. The key is to accompany the main dish with sides that won’t overshadow the bold flavors of the grilled chicken and zesty slaw.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve the Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw in big bowls, allowing guests to pile their plates how they please. You can also create vibrant tacos by spooning chopped chicken and slaw onto corn or flour tortillas, then topping with your favorite hot sauce. Another fun idea is assembling layered taco bowls with rice, slaw, chicken, beans, and crushed Fritos for a visually stunning and delicious meal. Presentation can be relaxed or polished — both work beautifully for this versatile recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The slaw will keep well for about 2 to 3 days, but the Fritos should be added fresh to maintain their crispiness. Keeping components separate ensures freshness and prevents sogginess, so you can enjoy this dish just as much the next day.

Freezing

While you can freeze the cooked grilled chicken for up to 3 months, it’s best not to freeze the slaw or the dressing as their textures will become watery and limp after thawing. Freeze the chicken in portions, wrapped securely to preserve flavor and moisture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the grilled chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through, taking care not to overcook and dry it out. For the slaw, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want it slightly warmed, just let it sit out for a few minutes before serving without heating to maintain its crisp crunch and vibrant flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but be sure to watch the grilling time closely as they tend to cook faster and can dry out more easily. Marinating or basting can help keep them juicy if you prefer breasts.

Is the Frito Slaw spicy?

The slaw has a gentle kick thanks to the jalapenos and chili cheese Fritos, but it’s not overpowering. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the jalapenos if you want a milder version.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and make the slaw the star of the meal. For protein, add grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra beans. The creamy cilantro lime dressing and Frito crunch remain deliciously satisfying on their own.

How long does the creamy cilantro lime dressing keep?

Stored in an airtight container, this dressing lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Give it a good shake or stir before using as it may separate slightly over time.

What’s the best way to crush the Fritos if I want smaller pieces?

Place the Fritos in a sealed plastic bag and lightly crush them using a rolling pin or your hands until you reach your desired texture. Be careful not to pulverize them too much—they add the perfect crunch just as they are!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Grilled Taco Chicken with Frito Slaw that makes it both comforting and exciting. From the smoky grilled chicken to the crunchy, zesty slaw with its secret Frito crunch and creamy dressing, every bite sings with vibrant flavors and textures. It’s a fantastic dish to add to your recipe arsenal, perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or whenever you need a fiesta on your plate. Give this one a try — I promise it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!