Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos – A Flavor-Packed Delight
If you’re looking to elevate your taco night, Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are the perfect choice. This mouthwatering combination of tender chicken coated in rich garlic butter and sweet BBQ sauce will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a weeknight meal, or craving a bold flavor fix, this taco recipe checks all the boxes.
In this guide, you’ll discover easy steps to create these tacos, pro tips for enhancing the flavor, and creative variations to customize the dish to your liking.
Table of Contents

Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
Ingredients
- 1 Pressure Cooker Ideal for creating a perfect sear on the chicken.
- For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 tablespoons butter preferably unsalted
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce honey BBQ preferred
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional for smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Monterey Jack
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips for faster cooking. If you prefer shredded chicken, cook whole breasts and shred them later.
- Season the chicken with paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey and BBQ sauce, mixing well.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or microwave them wrapped in a damp towel for 30 seconds.
- Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Spoon the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken into the tortillas.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and cheese.
- Serve with lime wedges for an added burst of citrus flavor.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Flavor Explosion: The fusion of savory garlic butter and sweet BBQ sauce creates a rich, unforgettable taste.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
- Customizable: Add toppings, switch tortillas, or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for game nights, family dinners, or potlucks.
For other bold and satisfying flavors, you might also enjoy this Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken or these easy Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipes.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tablespoons butter (preferably unsalted)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (honey BBQ preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips for faster cooking. If you prefer shredded chicken, cook whole breasts and shred them later.
- Season the chicken with paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the honey and BBQ sauce, mixing well.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until evenly coated.
For alternative sauce ideas, check out this rich and smoky Chipotle Honey Chicken recipe.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat tortillas on a dry skillet or microwave them wrapped in a damp towel for 30 seconds.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Spoon the Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken into the tortillas.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and cheese.
- Serve with lime wedges for an added burst of citrus flavor.
Creative Variations for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a fiery twist.
Taco Bowl Version: Skip the tortillas and serve the chicken over rice with avocado, black beans, and salsa.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate grilled bell peppers, onions, or corn for added texture and flavor.
Cheesy Delight: Melt cheese directly on the tortillas before adding the chicken for a gooey, irresistible bite.
For a unique side dish idea, consider these Potato Pave — a perfect pairing with tacos!
Pro Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce and seasonings for 1-2 hours before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, lime juice, and crisp veggies elevate the flavor.
- Control the Sweetness: Adjust the honey-to-BBQ sauce ratio if you prefer a less sweet profile.
People Also Ask – Expanded Guide
What Comes on the Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich?
The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich is a mouthwatering creation that combines crispy, tender chicken strips with the rich sweetness of honey BBQ sauce. Typically served on a toasted bun, this sandwich offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Key Ingredients Commonly Found in the Sandwich:
- Crispy Chicken Strips: Breaded and fried chicken strips for a crunchy texture.
- Honey BBQ Sauce: A sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
- Melted Cheese: Often cheddar or Monterey Jack to add creamy richness.
- Lettuce: Provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm chicken.
- Crispy Onions (Optional): Adds extra crunch and a savory kick.
Pro Tip: For a gourmet twist, try adding pickles, coleslaw, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for an elevated flavor profile.
If you’re a fan of BBQ chicken flavors, you may also love this recipe for Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken.
Is Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken Pre-Cooked?
Yes, Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken is fully cooked before packaging. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights, quick snacks, or last-minute meal prep.
How to Prepare Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken:
- Oven Preparation: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes for a crispy, golden exterior. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
- Air Fryer Method: For an extra crispy finish, cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Microwave Option: For a faster solution, heat on high for 2-3 minutes, but note that the chicken may not be as crispy.
Serving Tip: Pair Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken with fluffy biscuits, roasted veggies, or in a taco-style wrap for a complete meal.
For crispy chicken fans, try these crunchy Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipes for an irresistible twist.
How to Cut Chicken Breast for Chicken Tacos?
For the juiciest and most tender chicken pieces in your tacos, proper cutting techniques are key.
Steps to Cut Chicken for Tacos:
- Chill the Chicken: Slightly chilling the chicken breast makes it easier to slice cleanly.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures smooth, uniform cuts.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain (the visible muscle fibers) shortens the meat fibers, making each bite more tender.
- Thin Strips for Tacos: Aim for strips about 1/4-inch thick for faster cooking and easier taco assembly.
Alternative Cutting Method – Shredded Chicken:
For a softer texture, cook whole chicken breasts in a slow cooker or pressure cooker, then shred them with two forks for pulled chicken tacos. This method absorbs sauces beautifully and is ideal for recipes like Chipotle Honey Chicken.
How to Cook Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken Strips?
Preparing Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken Strips is simple and versatile, making them perfect for snacks, sandwiches, or main dishes.
Oven Method (Recommended for Best Texture):
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping the strips halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- For extra caramelization, brush on a little additional BBQ sauce before the final 5 minutes of baking.
Air Fryer Method (Crispiest Option):
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange chicken strips in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Microwave Method (Quickest Option):
- Place the chicken strips on a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat on high for 2-3 minutes.
- For a crispier result, finish in the oven for 5 minutes after microwaving.
Serving Ideas:
- Serve on toasted buns with lettuce and cheese for a quick BBQ sandwich.
- Add sliced chicken strips to a salad for added protein.
- Use in tacos, wraps, or even chopped into BBQ chicken quesadillas for a flavorful meal.
For more creative chicken dishes, check out these savory BBQ Chicken Sandwiches — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Bonus Tip for Homemade BBQ Sauce Enhancement:
If you’re using store-bought BBQ sauce with your Tyson Honey BBQ Chicken, consider enhancing the flavor by adding:
✅ A teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth
✅ A splash of apple cider vinegar for tang
✅ A drizzle of honey for extra sweetness
This simple trick creates a richer, more dynamic flavor to elevate your dish.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos
- Drizzle with Ranch or Chipotle Sauce: Adds a creamy, tangy finish.
- Pair with Refreshing Drinks: Lemonade, iced tea, or margaritas complement the rich flavors.
- Side Dish Ideas: Serve with Mexican Rice, refried beans, or grilled corn for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken
Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals to prevent dryness.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Chicken Tacos are a crowd-pleasing dish packed with savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. With easy preparation steps, versatile serving options, and creative variations, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
For more recipe inspiration, explore trusted sources like Tasty, AllRecipes, and Delish.
Try this recipe today and experience the irresistible blend of garlic butter and honey BBQ in every bite! 🌮🔥