These Easy Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a tasty twist on a classic! Filled with juicy chicken, sweet corn, and a sprinkle of cheese, they are sure to make your taste buds dance.
I love how quick they come together—perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun taco night! Just load ‘em up with your favorite toppings, and you’re all set for a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I usually go for rotisserie chicken because it’s so convenient. If you want a healthier option, grilled chicken breast works great too! For a meat-free alternative, try using canned chickpeas or shredded jackfruit.
Street Corn: You can use canned or frozen corn if fresh isn’t available. Just sauté it briefly to add some flavor. If you want to mix it up, adding bell peppers could also add sweetness and crunch.
Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas for authentic flavor, but flour tortillas are just fine too. If you’re gluten-free, there are many tasty gluten-free tortilla options available.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is a classic topping! If you can’t find it, feta works well, or you could try queso fresco. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Mayonnaise: Traditional recipes often use mayonnaise, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version. For a plant-based alternative, try vegan mayo—or even avocado for creaminess!
How Do I Make Sure My Tacos Don’t Fall Apart?
Keeping your tacos intact can be tricky, but here’s how to do it. Start by warming your tortillas—they should be soft enough to bend without breaking. Use a generous amount of chicken and corn but don’t overload them.
- Warm tortillas on a skillet or microwave to avoid cracking.
- Layer ingredients near the center to keep the edges free for folding.
- Roll them gently but tightly around the fillings, tucking in the ends to help hold everything in.
And don’t forget to serve them with lime wedges! The acidity from the lime will brighten up the flavors and keep everything fresh. Enjoy your taco night!
Easy Street Corn Chicken Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
- 1 cup street corn (elote-style corn, grilled or roasted)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15-20 minutes of prep time and assembly. If your chicken is already cooked, it’s even quicker! Enjoy a simple and satisfying meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Street Corn:
Start by grilling or roasting the corn on the cob until it has nice char marks and is fragrant. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once done, let it cool a bit, then carefully cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a bowl.
2. Making the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give your corn a lovely creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
3. Combining the Corn and Dressing:
Take your bowl of corn and drizzle the dressing over it. Gently stir until all the corn is beautifully coated with the dressing. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the tortillas.
4. Warming the Tortillas:
To warm the tortillas, either heat a dry pan over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds at a time until soft and pliable. Keeping them warm will make them easier to fold and less likely to crack.
5. Assembling the Tacos:
Grab the warm tortillas and start layering! Begin with a generous scoop of shredded chicken, followed by the dressed street corn mixture. Add diced red onion and slices of jalapeño for an extra kick if you like some heat.
6. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle your tacos with crumbled cotija cheese and a handful of fresh cilantro. These toppings will add vibrant flavor and texture to your tacos!
7. Serving:
Serve your tacos right away with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. The fresh lime juice brightens all the flavors and makes every bite delicious!
Enjoy your mouthwatering Easy Street Corn Chicken Tacos with family and friends! They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works great in this recipe. Just thaw it and quickly sauté it in a pan for a minute or two to bring out the flavors before adding it to the dressing.
Can I Make These Tacos Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make these tacos vegetarian! Simply replace the shredded chicken with black beans, chickpeas, or grilled veggies for a hearty and satisfying filling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. The tortillas can be kept at room temperature, while the chicken, corn mixture, and toppings should be refrigerated. They’ll be good for up to 3 days!
What Toppings Can I Add to Customize My Tacos?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Avocado, radishes, or salsa would be fantastic additions. You can also switch up the cheese for more flavor, like pepper jack for some heat.
