Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a delightful combination of marinated grilled chicken, fresh ingredients, and the vibrant flavors of street corn. Perfect for any gathering, these tacos bring a taste of Mexico right to your table. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive backyard party, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tacos quickly.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or special occasions like taco night with friends.
• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the crunch of fresh corn and creamy avocado for a satisfying texture.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level with taco sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos efficiently, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides that authentic charred flavor while cooking the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing the corn topping without mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy slicing of vegetables and cooked chicken pieces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 lbs Chicken Breasts (or tenderloins or thighs)
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup Canola Oil (or EVOO)
• 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice (about 2 to 3 limes)
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper

For the Street Corn Topping

• 2 cups Cooked Corn (from corn on the cob or frozen white corn)
• 1 to 2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
• 1 Tablespoon Lime Juice
• 1/4 teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1/4 cup Cilantro
• 1/2 Jalapeno (chopped)
• 2 Green Onions (sliced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Salt

For Assembling Tacos

• 6 to 12 Corn Tortillas
• 1 to 2 Avocados (sliced)
• 1/2 cup Cotija Cheese
• Cilantro (for garnish)
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 3 Tablespoons Taco Sauce (or more depending on spice preference)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Marinating is crucial for bringing flavor to your chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine canola oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn Topping

In another bowl, mix together cooked corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, chopped jalapeno, green onions, and garlic salt until well combined. Set aside for serving later.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook each side for about 6–7 minutes or until fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Warm your corn tortillas on the grill briefly. To assemble each taco, layer sliced chicken onto a tortilla followed by street corn topping, avocado slices, cotija cheese, cilantro garnish, sour cream, and taco sauce as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Serving Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can be as fun and vibrant as the flavors in the dish. These tacos are perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a casual lunch. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

Casual Taco Bar

• Set up a taco bar where guests can build their own tacos. Offer a variety of toppings like fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, and extra lime wedges.

Party Platter

• Arrange the tacos on a large platter and garnish with chopped cilantro and lime slices. This presentation makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering.

Side Salad Pairing

• Serve with a refreshing side salad, such as a mixed greens salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. This adds a lightness that complements the rich flavors of the tacos.

Avocado Slices on Top

• Instead of serving avocado on the side, slice it thinly and place it directly on top of each taco. This adds creaminess that enhances every bite.

Cotija Cheese Sprinkle

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle additional cotija cheese on top just before serving. It adds a salty kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Perfecting your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos is all about attention to detail and flavor balance. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, ripe avocados, and vibrant herbs make a significant difference in taste.
• Grill at high heat: Grilling your chicken at high heat ensures a nice char while keeping it juicy inside.
• Warm tortillas: Warm up your corn tortillas before serving; this prevents them from cracking and improves their texture.
• Add toppings creatively: Think beyond traditional toppings. Try adding pickled onions or diced mango for unique flavor combinations.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your street corn mixture before assembling to adjust seasoning to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices complements the tacos perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and are a classic pairing that balances textures.
3. Guacamole: Fresh guacamole provides creaminess and enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a tasty appetizer or side.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): A corn dish similar to what’s in the tacos but served on the cob, offering another layer of flavor.
6. Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad can add freshness and is packed with nutrients.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection provide color and nutrition alongside your tacos.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich flavors from the tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken enough can result in bland flavor. Ensure you marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Relying on stale or frozen produce can affect flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh corn, cilantro, and avocados when possible.
• Ignoring Tortilla Quality: Using poor-quality tortillas may ruin your tacos. Choose soft, fresh corn tortillas for the best experience.
• Forgetting to Toast Tortillas: Skipping this step leads to a less flavorful taco. Lightly toast tortillas on a skillet for added warmth and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep toppings separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Wrap tacos tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
• Consider freezing chicken and corn separately from tortillas.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped tacos for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; check frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are delicious tacos featuring marinated grilled chicken topped with street corn, avocado, cotija cheese, and fresh herbs.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings like salsa, jalapeños, or even switch out the proteins to fit your taste preferences.

How do I make the street corn topping?

Mix cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, jalapeño, green onions, and garlic salt for a creamy topping that enhances your tacos.

What types of tortillas are best for these tacos?

Soft corn tortillas are traditional and provide the best flavor. Flour tortillas can also be used if preferred.

How long does it take to prepare Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes—20 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Try this delightful recipe for dinner or lunch; it’s sure to please everyone at the table!