Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a delicious fusion of flavors that bring the vibrant tastes of Mexico right to your table. These tacos feature marinated grilled chicken, creamy street corn, and fresh toppings like avocado and cotija cheese. Perfect for dinner or lunch, they add a festive touch to any occasion, from casual family meals to lively gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these tacos can be ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh elements creates a taste explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch or dinner, these tacos adapt well to various dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties or family dinners, everyone will love customizing their own tacos.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using homemade street corn and ripe avocados enhances the freshness and quality of your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining marinade ingredients and preparing the street corn.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for veggies and chicken.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

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 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

1. In a mixing bowl, combine canola oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and coat it well with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn Mixture

1. In another bowl, mix cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, jalapeno, green onions, and garlic salt until well combined.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
3. Remove chicken from grill and let it rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble Tacos

1. Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet.
2. Layer sliced chicken onto each tortilla followed by street corn mixture.
3. Top with sliced avocado, cotija cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and taco sauce as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Serving Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can elevate your meal experience. These tacos are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve with a side of homemade tortilla chips and salsa for a relaxed dining experience.
• Add a fresh salad with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tacos.

Backyard Barbecue

• Set up a taco bar where guests can customize their tacos with toppings like jalapeños, avocado, and cotija cheese.
• Pair with refreshing drinks such as margaritas or iced tea to complement the flavors.

Game Day Feast

• Arrange a platter of tacos alongside guacamole and sour cream for easy snacking.
• Include crispy onion rings or jalapeño poppers as fun finger foods for guests to enjoy.

Festive Celebration

• Use colorful plates and napkins to create a lively atmosphere when serving at parties.
• Offer a variety of salsas—mild, medium, and hot—to cater to all spice preferences.

Quick Lunch Option

• Pack the tacos in meal prep containers for a nutritious on-the-go lunch.
• Complement with fresh fruit like mango slices for a sweet touch.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate the chicken well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb maximum flavor from spices and lime juice.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh corn on the cob when possible; it enhances the sweetness and crunch of your street corn topping.
• Grill at high heat: Cooking the chicken over high heat gives it those lovely grill marks and locks in juices.
• Warm tortillas before serving: Lightly warm your corn tortillas on the grill or stovetop to make them pliable and enhance their flavor.
• Balance flavors: Consider adding more lime juice or chili powder based on your taste preferences for an extra zing.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Pairing side dishes with Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair wonderfully with tacos. You can garnish them with cheese or cilantro for added flavor.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with tomatoes and spices complements the taco’s filling perfectly.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, cheese, and chili powder mirrors flavors in the tacos while offering a delicious crunch.
4. Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness to each bite of taco.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa provide an excellent appetizer or snack option before enjoying your tacos.
6. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only tastes great but also adds richness that pairs well with spicy tacos.
7. Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad mixed with peppers and lime is refreshing and complements the flavors of street corn in your tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Chicken – Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Neglecting the Marinade Time – Skipping proper marination leads to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for best taste.
• Using Low-Quality Corn – Stale or frozen corn can ruin the street corn flavor. Always use fresh or high-quality frozen corn for optimal sweetness.
• Forgetting Fresh Ingredients – Fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro add a burst of flavor. Don’t skip these; they enhance the overall dish.
• Ignoring Tortilla Quality – Cheap tortillas can break easily and spoil your tacos. Invest in good-quality corn tortillas that hold up well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Keep chicken and toppings separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
• You can freeze street corn as well; just make sure it’s cooled before sealing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, wrap tacos in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the tacos for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are grilled chicken tacos topped with a delicious street corn mixture, avocado, and cotija cheese.

How do I make the street corn topping?

Mix cooked corn with mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, chopped cilantro, jalapeño, green onions, and garlic salt for a tasty topping.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos?

Absolutely! You can add other toppings like diced tomatoes or switch up the cheese according to your taste preferences.

How spicy are these tacos?

The spiciness depends on how much jalapeño and taco sauce you use. Adjust it according to your spice preference for a milder or hotter dish.

Can I use different proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! These tacos work well with shrimp, pork, or even grilled vegetables if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are not just delicious but also versatile. They can be customized based on your taste preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try!