Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a delicious and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the street right to your kitchen. These tacos feature marinated grilled chicken, combined with homemade street corn, fresh avocado, and creamy cotija cheese. Perfect for casual dinners, backyard parties, or any festive occasion, they offer a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of marinated chicken and savory street corn creates a unique taste experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level with taco sauce and add extra toppings like jalapeños or more cilantro.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos fit right in.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh lime juice and avocado adds brightness and creaminess to each bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving perfectly grilled chicken with those beautiful char marks.
• Mixing Bowls: Helps combine ingredients for marinades and sauces effectively.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and slicing avocados safely.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor in every batch.

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 the 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

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. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn

While the chicken is marinating:
1. In another bowl, mix cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, chopped cilantro, chopped jalapeño, sliced green onions, and garlic salt until well combined.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade:
– Grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
– Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While the chicken is resting:
– Warm corn tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Slice the grilled chicken into strips. To assemble:
– Place some street corn mixture on each tortilla,
– Add sliced chicken,
– Top with avocado slices,
– Sprinkle cotija cheese,
– Drizzle sour cream,
– Finish with taco sauce as desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Serving Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can elevate any meal, making it a delightful experience for family and friends. Here are some tasty serving ideas to maximize flavor and presentation.

Fresh Salsa

• Add a vibrant pico de gallo made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. This fresh salsa will enhance the flavors of the tacos.

Lime Wedges

• Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos brightens up every bite.

Pickled Red Onions

• Incorporate pickled red onions for a tangy contrast. They add a pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the chicken.

Avocado Slices

• Include sliced avocados or guacamole. The creamy texture balances the spices and adds richness to your tacos.

Cotija Cheese Crumbles

• Top with crumbled cotija cheese for an authentic touch. Its salty flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet corn and seasoned chicken.

Sour Cream Drizzle

• Finish with a sour cream drizzle for added creaminess. Mixing in some taco sauce can enhance its flavor even more!

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Perfecting Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Use these tips to ensure your tacos turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate the chicken well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Grill at high heat: Cooking on high heat gives your chicken those perfect grill marks while keeping it juicy inside.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, herbs, and avocados make your tacos taste vibrant and full of life.
• Warm tortillas before serving: Slightly warming your corn tortillas prevents them from cracking and makes them more pliable.
• Customize toppings: Encourage guests to personalize their tacos with various toppings like jalapeños, extra cheese, or different salsas.
• Balance flavors: Aim for a mix of spicy, tangy, and creamy elements in your toppings for an exciting taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice
   A flavorful side, this rice typically includes tomatoes, spices, and peas. Serve it warm alongside your tacos.

2. Refried Beans
   Creamy refried beans offer protein and pair well with the textures of the tacos. You can serve them as a dip or on the side.

3. Corn Salad
   A fresh corn salad mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and diced peppers makes a refreshing accompaniment that mirrors flavors in the tacos.

4. Chips and Guacamole
   Crispy tortilla chips served with homemade guacamole provide a crunchy contrast that everyone loves as an appetizer or side dish.

5. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled vegetables add nutrition and color to your plate while bringing smoky flavors that complement the chicken.

6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
   This traditional dish celebrates corn in all its glory! Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime is irresistible alongside tacos.

7. Black Bean Salad
   A hearty black bean salad mixed with corn, bell peppers, and avocado is both filling and nutritious—perfect alongside your meal.

8. Cilantro Lime Slaw
   A light slaw made from cabbage tossed in cilantro and lime dressing adds crunchiness that contrasts beautifully with the soft tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland tacos. Aim for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or ingredients can affect cooking times and texture. Bring everything to room temperature before cooking.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry. Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale tortillas or old vegetables will affect taste. Always opt for fresh produce and quality tortillas.
• Forgetting to Season: Under-seasoning can leave your tacos flat in flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep tacos fresh and prevent odors from mixing.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• • Duration: Frozen tacos can last up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• • Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• • Stovetop: Heat on medium heat in a skillet for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions frequently asked about Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos:

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or shrimp based on your preference.

What is the best way to serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Serve them warm with fresh toppings like avocado, lime wedges, and extra cilantro for added flavor.

How do I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

You can add other toppings such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or different types of cheese for variety.

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These tacos store well in the fridge and can be made ahead of time for quick meals during the week.

What sides pair well with these tacos?

Consider serving with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a fantastic way to enjoy grilled chicken with vibrant flavors from homemade street corn. Feel free to customize your toppings and make it your own! Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these tacos are sure to impress.

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Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

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Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of street food into your home kitchen. Featuring juicy, marinated grilled chicken paired with creamy street corn, fresh avocado, and savory cotija cheese, these tacos are perfect for any occasion. They combine a medley of textures and tastes that will leave your guests craving more. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this recipe is ideal for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Elevate your taco night with this delightful dish that celebrates bold flavors and fresh ingredients!

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chicken breasts
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup canola oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 cups cooked corn
• 1 to 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 6 to 12 corn tortillas
• 1 to 2 avocados
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix canola oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the street corn: Mix cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, jalapeño, green onions, and garlic salt in a separate bowl.
3. Grill the chicken: Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Warm tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
5. Assemble tacos: Slice grilled chicken and place it on tortillas with street corn mixture, avocado slices, cotija cheese, sour cream, and taco sauce.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor variation, try using different types of meat such as shrimp or pork. Customize toppings with diced tomatoes or extra spices according to your taste preferences.