Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Street Corn Chicken Tacos are here to save the day! This simple recipe combines juicy chicken and sweet corn with zesty flavors. You can whip up this delightful dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers. Join me as I walk you through the steps to create a dish that will impress family and friends alike!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of smoky spices with sweet corn and creamy cotija creates a delightful balance that excites the taste buds.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Customizable: With options for toppings and fillings, each taco can be tailored to individual preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh corn and herbs not only enhances flavor but also makes these tacos a vibrant and healthy option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
Spices and Seasonings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Components
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– Zest and juice of 1 lime
– 8 small corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for garnish
These ingredients create the perfect blend for Street Corn Chicken Tacos. The chicken provides protein, while the corn adds sweetness and crunch. Mayonnaise and cotija cheese give a creamy finish.
The spices bring out bold flavors. Olive oil helps cook the corn, making it tender and slightly charred. Lime juice and zest brighten the dish, and cilantro adds freshness.
When choosing corn, you can use what you have on hand. Fresh corn is great in summer, while frozen corn works well year-round. Canned corn is a quick option.
For the tortillas, I prefer small corn tortillas. They hold the filling well and add authentic flavor. Lime wedges on the side let you add a zesty touch before each bite.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to make a tasty meal that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Street Corn Mixture
To start, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add one cup of corn kernels. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. Sauté the corn for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for a nice char on the corn. This brings out its natural sweetness.
Seasoning the Corn
Once the corn is charred, it’s time to add flavor. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one teaspoon of chili powder, and half a teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step allows the spices to blend with the corn, creating a tasty mix.
Making the Crema
While the corn cools, prepare the crema. In a small bowl, combine half a cup of mayonnaise, half a cup of crumbled cotija cheese, the zest of one lime, and lime juice. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste the crema and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed. Set it aside for later.
Assembling the Tacos
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the charred corn mixture. Toss them together gently. Now, warm 8 small corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat each for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easy to fill.
Filling the Tacos
Now for the fun part. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and corn mixture into each warm tortilla. Drizzle the creamy cotija crema over the top. Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Final Presentation
Arrange the filled tacos on a colorful platter. Garnish them with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. This adds a nice touch and lets everyone flavor their tacos just right. Enjoy your vibrant and tasty street corn chicken tacos!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make your Street Corn Chicken Tacos shine, you can adjust the spice levels. Start with the given spices. If you crave more heat, add jalapeños. They can add a fresh kick to your dish. Simply chop them up and mix them in with the corn. Taste as you go, and find the right balance for you.
Optimal Chicken Preparation
Using rotisserie chicken makes life easy. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken with two forks. Hold the breast down with one fork and pull apart with the other. This makes it quick and simple.
Tortilla Tips
For corn tortillas, I recommend brands like Mission or La Banderita. They are soft and tasty. To keep your tortillas warm, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. Place them in a basket or dish. This keeps them soft until you’re ready to serve. Enjoy your tacos fresh and warm!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Corn: If possible, use fresh corn on the cob for the best flavor. Grill or char it before adding to the tacos for an extra smoky taste.
- Warm the Tortillas: Always warm your corn tortillas before filling. This makes them more pliable and prevents tearing.
- Customize the Crema: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the crema for an extra kick of heat.
- Extra Toppings: Consider adding sliced radishes, avocado, or pickled red onions as additional toppings for added texture and flavor.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can easily make these tacos vegetarian. Instead of chicken, use black beans or grilled vegetables. Black beans add protein and fiber. They also soak up flavors well. Grilled vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, bring a nice crunch.
To prepare, simply sauté the vegetables until tender. Then, mix them with the corn for a tasty filling. This option keeps your meal light and fresh. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy veggies!
Spicy Version
If you like heat, try the spicy version. Add chipotle or hot sauce to the crema. This will give your tacos a kick! Chipotle adds a smoky flavor. Hot sauce brings the spice, so use what you prefer.
To make it, mix in a teaspoon of chipotle or a few dashes of hot sauce. Taste it first, and adjust to your liking. This spicy twist makes your tacos exciting and full of flavor!
Taco Bar Adaptation
A taco bar is perfect for gatherings. It allows guests to build their own tacos. Set up a table with all the toppings. Include the chicken and corn mix, crema, and fresh cilantro.
Add extra toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado. This way, everyone can customize their meal. Provide small bowls for each topping. Make sure to have plenty of lime wedges for that zesty finish!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store the chicken and corn mixture, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Make sure the lid is tight to keep the flavors fresh. You can also store the chicken and corn separate from the tortillas. This way, they stay fresh longer.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the tacos or their parts. If freezing the whole taco, wrap each one in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months. For best results, freeze the chicken and corn mixture separately. Just cool it first and use a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat without losing texture, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the tacos on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes until warm. For the chicken and corn mixture, use a skillet. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often. This method keeps the flavors bright and fresh. Avoid using a microwave, as it makes tacos soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. Frozen corn is often picked at peak ripeness. It is quick to prepare and saves time. You just need to sauté it straight from the freezer. This will give you a sweet and tender texture in your tacos. You can enjoy the same great flavor without the fuss of shucking fresh corn.
What type of cheese can I substitute for cotija?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, try feta cheese or queso fresco. Both have a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. Feta is slightly tangier, while queso fresco is milder. You can even use Parmesan cheese if you want a sharper taste. Each option will still make your tacos delicious.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use corn tortillas labeled as gluten-free. Many brands offer great options. For sauces, ensure your mayonnaise is gluten-free. You can also make your own crema using simple gluten-free ingredients. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty tacos.
Can I prepare these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep these tacos in advance. Cook the chicken and corn mixture and store it in the fridge. You can also make the crema ahead of time. Just warm the tortillas right before serving. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh tacos without a lot of work.
This blog covers a tasty chicken taco recipe with corn, crema, and spices. You learned all about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips.
In closing, these tacos are simple to make and fun to customize. You can swap chicken for beans, or add jalapeños for heat. Whether you enjoy them fresh or store some for later, these tacos will please your taste buds. Get cooking and enjoy this great mea
