There’s something magical about the combination of crispy fried chicken and sweet, smoky street corn, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.
Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience.
Whether you’re looking to spice up a busy weeknight dinner or impress friends at your next gathering, these tacos deliver on flavor and fun.
With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for a taste.
Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos
These Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are a game-changer for your dinner routine.
They come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
The crunch of the fried chicken paired with the sweetness of the street corn creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Plus, they’re customizable! Add your favorite toppings and make them your own.
Dinner just got a whole lot more exciting!
Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos
To whip up these delightful Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors.
Fried Chicken: The star of the show! Use your favorite fried chicken, whether homemade or store-bought. The crunch is essential.
Street Corn: This is grilled corn mixed with spices. It adds a sweet and smoky flavor. You can make it from scratch or buy it pre-made.
Corn Tortillas: Soft and pliable, these are perfect for holding all the delicious fillings. Look for fresh ones at your local market.
Shredded Cabbage: Adds a nice crunch and freshness. You can use green or purple cabbage for a pop of color.
Cilantro: This herb brings a burst of freshness. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute.
Queso Fresco: A crumbly cheese that adds creaminess. Feta can work in a pinch if you can’t find queso fresco.
Lime: A squeeze of lime brightens up the flavors. Fresh lime juice is a must for that zesty kick.
Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat! Choose your favorite brand to drizzle on top.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
These ingredients are not just staples; they’re the building blocks of a meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos
Making Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos is a straightforward process that’s as fun as it is delicious.
Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring you have all the tips you need for a successful taco night!
Step 1: Prepare the Fried Chicken
Start by chopping your fried chicken into bite-sized pieces.
If you’re using leftover chicken, this step is a breeze!
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken beforehand.
A simple mix of buttermilk and spices can elevate the taste.
The crunchier, the better!
Step 2: Grill the Corn
Next, it’s time to grill the corn.
If you have fresh corn, grill it until it’s slightly charred.
This adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Once grilled, mix the corn with spices like chili powder and lime juice.
This street corn mixture is what makes these tacos sing!
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Now, let’s warm those corn tortillas.
You can do this in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Warming them makes them more pliable and easier to fold.
Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for taco perfection!
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Time to build your tacos!
Take a warm tortilla and layer on the fried chicken first.
Then, add a generous scoop of the grilled street corn.
Top it off with shredded cabbage and fresh cilantro.
The colors and textures will make your mouth water!
Step 5: Add Toppings
Now for the fun part—toppings!
Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco over the tacos for that creamy goodness.
A squeeze of lime juice adds brightness, while hot sauce gives it a kick.
Feel free to get creative here; avocado or jalapeños can take it to the next level!
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Finally, serve your Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos right away.
The crunch of the chicken and the warmth of the tortillas should be enjoyed fresh.
Gather your friends or family around the table, and watch them dig in with delight.
These tacos are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors!
Tips for Success
Marinate your chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor.
Use fresh corn for grilling; it makes a noticeable difference in taste.
Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable.
Don’t overload the tacos; a little goes a long way for balance.
Experiment with toppings to find your perfect flavor combination!
Equipment Needed
Skillet: For frying and warming tortillas. A non-stick pan works well too.
Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for charring the corn. A stovetop grill pan is a great alternative.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping chicken and prepping ingredients.
Tongs: Handy for flipping chicken and handling hot tortillas.
Variations
Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken marinade for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute fried chicken with crispy tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms for a meatless delight.
Street Corn Salad: Instead of tacos, serve the street corn mixture over a bed of greens for a fresh salad.
Gluten-Free Tortillas: Use corn tortillas to keep this dish gluten-free while still enjoying all the flavors.
Cheesy Twist: Mix shredded cheese into the street corn for a creamy, cheesy filling that’s irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair your tacos with a refreshing Mexican street corn salad or a zesty black bean salad for a complete meal.
Drinks: Serve with a cold cerveza or a tangy margarita to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange tacos on a colorful platter, garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos
Can I use leftover chicken for these tacos?
Absolutely! Leftover fried chicken works perfectly in these Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos. Just chop it up, and you’re good to go. It’s a great way to repurpose your meals!
What can I substitute for queso fresco?
If you can’t find queso fresco, crumbled feta cheese is a fantastic alternative. It offers a similar creamy texture and salty flavor that complements the tacos beautifully.
How can I make these tacos spicier?
For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or drizzle your favorite hot sauce on top. You can also mix cayenne pepper into the chicken marinade for an extra layer of heat.
Can I make the street corn ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the street corn mixture in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your tacos. This makes for a quick and easy dinner option!
Are these tacos gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use corn tortillas, these Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are gluten-free. They’re a delicious option for anyone avoiding gluten!
Final Thoughts
Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that bring joy to the dinner table.
Each bite is a delightful crunch, a burst of sweetness, and a hint of spice, making them perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these tacos are sure to impress.
They invite laughter, conversation, and a sense of togetherness.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this culinary adventure.
Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are a delicious and exciting dinner option that combines the crunch of fried chicken with the sweetness of street corn, all wrapped in a soft taco.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fried chicken, chopped
1 cup street corn (grilled corn with spices)
8 small corn tortillas
1/2 cup shredded cabbage
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup queso fresco, crumbled
1 lime, cut into wedges
Hot sauce, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the fried chicken and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
Grill the corn and mix it with spices to create the street corn mixture.
Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
Assemble the tacos by placing fried chicken, street corn, shredded cabbage, and cilantro on each tortilla.
Top with queso fresco and a squeeze of lime.
Add hot sauce to taste and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken before frying.
Feel free to add avocado or jalapeños for additional toppings.
These tacos can be made with leftover chicken for a quick meal.