Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are the perfect fusion of sweet, smoky, savory, and buttery flavors—all wrapped in a soft tortilla. I love how juicy BBQ chicken is coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, then topped with fresh slaw or avocado for a crave-worthy taco that brings bold flavor to every bite. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a busy weeknight, this recipe always hits the spot.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love these chicken tacos because they’re quick to make, full of flavor, and totally customizable. The honey BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with garlic butter to give the chicken an irresistible glaze, while fresh toppings add a crisp contrast. It’s a family-friendly meal that feels like comfort food but comes together fast. I also enjoy how easy it is to prep ahead and make in batches for a crowd.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Butter
• Honey
• Your favorite BBQ sauce (sweet, smoky, or spicy)
• Soft flour or corn tortillas

Optional toppings:

• Shredded cabbage or slaw mix
• Avocado slices
• Pickled red onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Crumbled feta or cotija cheese

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: I season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot skillet with a little olive oil until browned and cooked through. Once done, I remove it and let it rest before slicing or shredding.

2. Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about a minute. Then I add honey and BBQ sauce, stirring to combine and letting it bubble for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Toss the chicken: I return the chicken to the pan and coat it in the sticky garlic butter honey BBQ sauce until fully glazed.

4. Assemble the tacos: I warm the tortillas and load them with saucy chicken, then add my favorite toppings—usually slaw, avocado, and a sprinkle of cilantro or cheese.

5. Serve: I finish each taco with a squeeze of lime and serve immediately while everything is warm and flavorful.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 8 tacos (serves 4)

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: I stir in a bit of hot sauce or chipotle peppers in adobo to the BBQ sauce for added heat.

• Lettuce wrap tacos: I use large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free option.

• Grilled version: In warmer months, I grill the chicken for extra smoky flavor before tossing it in the sauce.

• Add crunch: I top the tacos with crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla strips for texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. I store the tortillas and toppings separately to keep everything fresh and easy to assemble. The chicken also freezes well—just let it cool completely before freezing, then thaw and reheat when needed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, I sometimes shred rotisserie chicken and toss it in the garlic butter honey BBQ sauce to save time. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

I usually use a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, but spicy or tangy versions also work great. I just pick the flavor that matches my mood.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. I cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then reheat and assemble the tacos right before serving.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

They can be! I use gluten-free BBQ sauce and corn tortillas to keep the entire dish gluten-free.

What side dishes go well with these tacos?

I like serving them with Mexican rice, black beans, corn salad, or tortilla chips with guacamole for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos bring together all the flavors I love—sweet, savory, smoky, and buttery—in one easy, mouthwatering recipe. Whether I’m feeding the family or entertaining guests, these tacos are always a hit. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is one I keep coming back to for quick, satisfying dinners.