Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos combine the bold flavors of grilled chicken with the sweetness of street corn, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these tacos stand out with their vibrant ingredients and delightful textures. The combination of fresh avocado and cotija cheese elevates this dish, bringing a taste of Mexico right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Each bite offers a burst of flavor from the marinated chicken and creamy toppings.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a tasty meal quickly.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients that are both satisfying and nutritious.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels and toppings to suit your personal taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create these tasty Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or Grill Pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving that delicious grilled flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing Bowls: Perfect for marinating chicken and combining ingredients for street corn.
• Knife: A good knife is necessary for slicing avocados and chopping vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

Mexican marinated grilled chicken tacos with homemade street corn, fresh avocado, and cotija cheese.

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

• 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

Begin by preparing the marinade for your chicken:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine canola oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade.
3. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn

While the chicken marinates, prepare the street corn topping:
1. In another mixing bowl, combine cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, jalapeno, green onions, and garlic salt.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Next, grill your marinated chicken:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Place the marinated chicken on the grill.
3. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Now it’s time to put everything together:
1. Warm your corn tortillas on a skillet or directly on the grill for a few seconds each side.
2. Slice grilled chicken into strips.
3. On each tortilla, add sliced chicken followed by street corn mixture.
4. Top with sliced avocado and sprinkle cotija cheese over everything.

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Finally, serve your tacos:
1. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
2. Offer sour cream and taco sauce on the side for extra flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos that are sure to impress!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Serving Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a festive atmosphere. These tacos are versatile and can be dressed up in various ways to suit any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Add Extra Freshness

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
• Lime Wedges: Offer lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus.

Create a Taco Bar

• Taco Station: Lay out all ingredients separately, allowing guests to customize their own tacos.
• Salsa Options: Include different salsas, such as pico de gallo, mango salsa, or spicy salsa verde.

Pair with Refreshing Drinks

• Margaritas: Serve classic lime margaritas or fruity variations for a refreshing drink pairing.
• Agua Fresca: Offer a light agua fresca made from fruits like watermelon or hibiscus.

Incorporate Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crispy tortilla chips and a side of guacamole for extra crunch.
• Pickled Onions: Provide pickled red onions for tanginess and color.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are nothing short of amazing, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Grill Over High Heat: Cooking on high heat gives the chicken those desirable grill marks and flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh corn and ripe avocados for the best taste and texture.
• Warm Tortillas: Heating your corn tortillas enhances their flavor and makes them pliable.

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 tasty options:

1. Mexican Rice: A fluffy rice dish seasoned with spices that complements the tacos perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and protein to your meal.
3. Corn Salad: A colorful salad made of corn, tomatoes, and avocado drizzled with lime dressing.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide a smoky flavor contrast.
5. Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make for a great appetizer.
6. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad with black beans, corn, and cilantro that adds freshness and nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating your chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
• Using Frozen Corn Directly: If you’re using frozen corn, be sure to cook it first for better texture and taste. Thaw it and sauté briefly before adding to your tacos.
• Overloading Tacos: It’s tempting to pile on toppings, but too much can make them messy. Stick to a few key ingredients for balance.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate your tacos. Always use fresh cilantro and ripe avocados when possible.
• Not Adjusting Spice Levels: Everyone has different spice preferences. Start with less chili powder and adjust according to your taste, especially if serving guests.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep any leftover Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Store the tacos in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped tacos for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place the tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the tacos for about 2-3 minutes on each side to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos.

How do I make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos spicier?

You can add more jalapeño or increase the amount of chili powder in your marinade. Consider using spicy taco sauce as well.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! These tacos are versatile; you can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What sides pair well with Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Consider serving them with a fresh salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips with salsa for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Feel free to add extra toppings like pickled onions, diced tomatoes, or different types of cheese according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings and spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or weeknight dinner; it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!