Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Street corn chicken tacos are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican street food right at home. This recipe combines juicy chicken, fresh corn, and a zesty cashew sauce, creating a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s an easy dish to whip up for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, and it brings a taste of the outdoors to your table.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to try your hand at making street corn chicken tacos. Not only do they offer a burst of flavors from the grilled chicken and charred corn, but they also provide impressive texture from the creamy avocado and crunchy toppings. This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate fresh ingredients like corn and herbs while allowing for flexibility in flavor variations. For another quick and delicious option, check out our 30-Minute Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl for a fun twist on similar flavors!

How to Make Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Making street corn chicken tacos is both simple and rewarding, giving you a satisfying meal in just a short amount of time.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sazon seasoning
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 3 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears)
• 1 cup diced avocado
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
• 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced, for salsa)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (for salsa)
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 30 minutes)
• 1 jalapeño (seeded, for sauce)
• 1/4 cup water (plus more as needed)
• 12 corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
• 1/2 cup cotija or feta cheese (crumbled)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Start by soaking the cashews in hot water for 30 minutes. Once they are soaked, drain and blend them with one jalapeño, lime juice, water, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set your cashew sauce aside.

2. In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, sazon seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the seasonings.

3. Grill or sear the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

4. In a dry skillet over high heat, char the corn kernels for about 5-7 minutes, or until dark spots begin to form. Transfer the charred corn to a bowl.

5. Add diced avocado, red onion, one minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and lime juice to the corn. Lightly season this mixture with salt and pepper before mixing gently.

6. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for approximately 30 seconds per side. To assemble your tacos, fill each tortilla with slices of chicken, street corn salsa, and drizzle your smooth cashew sauce on top.

7. Finish your tacos with a sprinkle of cotija cheese, extra cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy your delicious street corn chicken tacos!

Pro Tips for Success with Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Use a meat thermometer: This is vital to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe temperature without overcooking it, keeping it juicy and tender.
• Char the corn properly: High heat is essential for getting that delicious char. This enhances the flavor and adds texture to your tacos.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the corn salsa and cashew sauce in advance to save time when assembling the tacos.
• Mix and match toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as sliced radishes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added heat.

Flavor Variations for Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Spicy twist: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the cashew sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Creamy avocado sauce: Blend avocado with garlic, lime juice, and a bit of yogurt or sour cream to drizzle over tacos for a richer texture.
• Grilled veggies: Include grilled zucchini or bell peppers alongside the chicken for more veggies and flavor.
• Different proteins: Feel free to swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Pair with chips and salsa: Serve your tacos alongside tortilla chips topped with salsa for a perfect meal.
• Serve with rice or a salad: A side of cilantro lime rice or a fresh salad can make for a complete meal.
• Add a refreshing drink: A limeade or traditional agua fresca complements these tacos beautifully.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Street Corn Chicken Tacos

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You may want to keep the tortilla separate from the fillings to prevent them from getting soggy.
• Freezing: For longer storage, the cooked chicken and corn salsa can be frozen separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before assembling your tacos.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg

FAQ About Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Can I use different spices for the chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to explore other spice combinations that you enjoy, such as taco seasoning or Cajun spices.

Can the cashew sauce be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cashew sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, or any plant-based protein to make a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just mix the shredded chicken with the seasonings and warm it through before assembling your tacos.

What other side dishes go well with tacos?

In addition to chips and salad, consider serving refried beans or corn on the cob for a well-rounded meal that compliments your street corn chicken tacos.

Final Thoughts

Street corn chicken tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with rich flavors and vibrant textures. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress and delight everyone around your table. For another easy and satisfying option featuring delicious chicken and corn, check out our recipe for Chicken Street Corn Bowls. Your culinary journey is just beginning!

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