Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos that bring vibrant flavors and textures to your table. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, these tacos combine marinated grilled chicken with creamy street corn, fresh avocado, and zesty toppings. The unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes this dish stand out, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro creates a burst of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust toppings and spice levels to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner party, these tacos fit right in.
• Healthy Options: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides perfect char marks on the chicken while enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing the street corn topping.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps to chop ingredients easily and safely.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create these flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos:

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 Assembly

• 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

Begin by combining the canola oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn Topping

In another bowl, mix together cooked corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, chopped jalapeno, sliced green onions, and garlic salt. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While the chicken rests, warm the corn tortillas on a skillet or directly over low heat on the grill until pliable.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Place some chicken in each tortilla followed by a generous scoop of street corn topping. Top with sliced avocado, crumbled cotija cheese, dollops of sour cream, cilantro garnish, and taco sauce as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Serving your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can elevate the dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these delicious tacos.

Creative Plating Ideas

• Use colorful plates: Brightly colored dishes enhance the visual appeal of your tacos.
• Garnish with lime wedges: Fresh lime adds a vibrant touch and allows guests to customize their flavor.

Taco Bar Setup

• Create a DIY taco bar: Lay out all ingredients in separate bowls, allowing guests to build their own tacos with ease.
• Include toppings: Offer a variety of toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and extra cilantro for added freshness.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with refreshing drinks: Offer beverages like cucumber-lime water or mango juice to complement the spices in the tacos.
• Add chips and salsa: A side of tortilla chips with fresh salsa or guacamole makes for a perfect appetizer before tackling the main dish.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

To create the ultimate Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, follow these essential tips for maximum flavor and satisfaction.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor.
• Use fresh corn: If possible, use fresh corn on the cob for a sweeter taste compared to frozen corn.
• Grill for char: Achieve that authentic flavor by grilling the chicken until it’s slightly charred.
• Customize spice levels: Adjust chili powder in both chicken marinade and street corn mixture to suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Complementing your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos with delicious side dishes can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds a hearty element.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and balance out the meal.
3. Guacamole: Fresh avocado mixed with lime juice and spices offers creaminess and zest.
4. Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with homemade salsa serve as a perfect starter.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition.
6. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing enhances the summer vibe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to properly marinate the chicken can lead to bland tacos. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Not Charring the Corn: Neglecting to char the corn reduces its flavor profile. Grill or sauté until slightly browned for that authentic street corn taste.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or frozen toppings can diminish your tacos’ freshness. Always opt for fresh avocado and herbs for the best taste.
• Choosing the Wrong Tortillas: Using flour tortillas instead of corn will change the texture and flavor. Stick with corn tortillas for an authentic experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos that may help you prepare this delicious dish.

What is the best way to marinate chicken for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Marinating chicken with lime juice, chili powder, and cumin enhances its flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper taste.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! Beef, turkey, or lamb can be great alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures in your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos.

How do I make homemade street corn?

To make street corn, mix cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, and chopped jalapeños for a creamy topping.

What toppings pair well with these tacos?

Sliced avocados, cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and taco sauce complement Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos nicely.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add beans, different cheeses, or even switch up the spices based on your preferences!

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them with different toppings or proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!