Name: Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos: A Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (marinate in buttermilk); 1 cup buttermilk (can substitute with milk plus vinegar); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating); 1 tsp paprika (adjust to taste); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying); 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 lime lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 cup cotija cheese (crumbled); 1/4 cup cilantro (fresh, chopped); 8 pieces corn tortillas (warm before use)

As I took my first bite, the delightful crunch of crispy fried chicken mingled perfectly with the creamy, smoky notes of street corn, and I knew I had stumbled onto something special. Let me introduce you to my Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos, a heavenly marriage of textures and flavors that transforms any mealtime into a fiesta. This recipe is your new go-to for quick dinners or lively gatherings, offering both gluten-free comfort and a delicious twist on classic Mexican cuisine. The beauty of these tacos lies in their versatility—customize with toppings that set your tastebuds dancing! Curious about how to bring this mouthwatering delight to your table? Keep scrolling!

Why are Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos a Must?

Unique Blend of Flavors: The crispy fried chicken paired with creamy street corn brings together exciting textures and tastes that will impress your guests.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these tacos ready in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa for a personal twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: These tacos are sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults craving a hearty meal.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Enjoy comfort food without compromise—this recipe keeps everyone in mind, including those avoiding gluten.
Don’t forget to check out Cream Cheese Chicken for another delightful dish that pairs well with these tacos!

Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Cooked and shredded chicken – Forms the hearty foundation; marinate in buttermilk for unbeatable moisture.
• Buttermilk – Deepens the chicken’s flavor and juiciness; can be swapped with milk plus vinegar for a quick fix.
• All-purpose flour – Essential for coating; it creates the crispy outer layer we crave.
• Paprika – Boosts flavor and adds vibrant color; feel free to adjust according to your spice level.
• Garlic powder – Captures that savory essence; it’s a must for depth of flavor.
• Onion powder – Complements garlic beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
• Salt – The magic ingredient that elevates all flavors.
• Black pepper – Offers a slight kick and well-rounded seasoning.
• Cayenne pepper – Optional, but perfect for those who like a spicy surprise!

For the Frying
• Vegetable oil – Essential for frying, creating that golden, crunchy exterior.

For the Creamy Street Corn
• Corn kernels – The sweet and savory base; frozen corn works just as well as fresh.
• Mayonnaise – Adds luscious creaminess to the corn mix.
• Sour cream – Provides a tangy kick, balancing the richness.
• Lime juice – A splash of acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Chili powder – Gives the corn a delightful hint of spice.

For Topping
• Cotija cheese – Crumbled on top for a salty, tangy finish; you can substitute with feta if needed.
• Cilantro – Fresh herb garnish to elevate each bite.
• Corn tortillas – The backbone of the tacos; warm them beforehand for a soft texture.

Create your delicious Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with these ingredients and enjoy the culinary magic they bring to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Begin by soaking the cooked and shredded chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step ensures the chicken remains moist and flavorful, so if time allows, marinate for longer. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat, preparing it for the crispy fried coating.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the chicken marinates, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a wide bowl. Make sure all ingredients are well combined, creating a flavorful coating that adds crunch and depth to your Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos.

Step 3: Heat Oil
Next, pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet, filling it to about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small bit of the flour mixture into the oil—if it sizzles, you’re all set to fry your chicken!

Step 4: Coat and Fry Chicken
Once the oil is ready, dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Make Street Corn Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder. Mix all the ingredients until the corn is well-coated and creamy. This mixture brings a deliciously smoky and tangy flavor to your Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos.

Step 6: Warm Tortillas
Take corn tortillas and warm each one in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This softens the tortillas, making them pliable and enhancing their taste, ready to hold the delightful fillings of your tacos.

Step 7: Assemble Tacos
Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Start with a warm tortilla, layer it with a generous scoop of the creamy street corn mixture, followed by several pieces of crispy fried chicken. Finally, sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Enjoy your homemade Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos!

Expert Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F before frying. This prevents greasy chicken and helps achieve that desired crispiness.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature, preventing sogginess and ensuring even cooking.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to adjust spices and toppings in your street corn mixture, but be cautious not to overpower the crispy chicken.
Tortilla Technique: Warming tortillas in a skillet makes them pliable and enhances their flavor; don’t skip this step!
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro and high-quality cotija cheese to elevate the overall taste of your tacos and create vibrant, flavorful bites.

What to Serve with Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Add a burst of flavor to your dining experience with complementary sides and drinks that perfectly enhance these crispy, creamy tacos.

Mexican Street Rice: A zesty side with tomatoes and spices that adds a lovely texture and pairs beautifully with the mild flavors of the tacos.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole offers a cool contrast to the spicy chicken, making each bite feel like a fiesta in your mouth.
Fresh Pico de Gallo: This vibrant salsa made of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings a burst of freshness and acidity, enhancing the taco experience.
Black Bean Salad: A hearty and colorful mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers adds protein and a tasty crunch, rounding out the meal effortlessly.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, add a sprinkle of chili powder and lime for a refreshing side that echoes the street corn’s flavors while providing a fun texture.
Chilled Agua Fresca: This light, fruity drink hydrates and complements the spices in the tacos with its refreshing flavor—perfect for warm evenings.

These pairing ideas will elevate your meal and leave everyone coming back for more!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness any night of the week! You can marinate the cooked and shredded chicken in buttermilk for up to 24 hours, giving it ample time to absorb flavor. Additionally, prepare the creamy street corn mixture within 3 days and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the marinated chicken until golden and warm the tortillas. Assemble the tacos right before eating to keep the tortillas soft and the chicken crispy, making your meal a delightful and effortless affair!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Fridge: Store assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To keep the tortillas from getting soggy, consider storing the crispy chicken and street corn mixture separately and assembling just before serving.

Freezer: If you have leftover crispy chicken or street corn, you can freeze them. Place each in individual airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the crispy chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Quickly warm tortillas in a dry skillet before assembling your tacos again.

Tip: For the best taste, enjoy your Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos fresh, but if you have leftovers, these storage tips will keep them delightful!

Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize these tacos to make them uniquely yours!

Spicy Addition: Stir in diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the street corn mixture for an extra kick.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap mayonnaise and sour cream with avocado or a creamy cashew sauce for a delicious plant-based version.
Vegetarian Twist: Substitute shredded chicken with grilled or roasted jackfruit for a satisfying vegetarian option that still provides great texture.
Flavorful Fiesta: Top with pico de gallo or mango salsa for a burst of fresh, fruity flavor that complements the creamy corn beautifully.
Zesty Kick: Incorporate fresh lime zest into the street corn mixture to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
Crunchy Toppings: Add a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top for an extra crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy corn.
Seafood Surprise: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood-inspired variation. Lightly bread and fry the shrimp for that crispy texture.
Cheesy Goodness: Enhance the flavor by mixing in a handful of shredded Monterey Jack cheese with the street corn for an extra creamy, cheesy delight.

Dive into the world of culinary experimentation with these variations! And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Baked Chicken Goujons or treat yourself to some flavorful Chicken Rolled Tacos. Happy cooking!

Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the tacos?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own chicken. Just make sure it is cooked and shredded, which is essential for the texture of the tacos. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk will enhance its flavor and moisture, giving you the best results.

How should I store leftover Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos?
To store these delicious tacos, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for optimum freshness, I recommend storing the crispy fried chicken and the street corn mixture separately. This way, your tortillas won’t get soggy, keeping everything nice and crunchy when you reheat.

Can I freeze the crispy fried chicken or street corn mixture?
Yes, you can freeze each component! Store the crispy fried chicken and street corn mixture in individual airtight containers, and they’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just make sure to label them! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat the chicken in a skillet until heated through.

What should I do if my fried chicken isn’t crispy?
Very often, the secret to crispiness lies in the oil temperature! Ensure that your cooking oil is around 350°F (175°C) before frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken may absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan; frying in batches allows each piece to cook evenly and become crispy.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This recipe for Crispy Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos is gluten-free, but be mindful of the other ingredients, especially if you have specific allergies. For instance, Cotija cheese may not be suitable if you’re lactose intolerant. Substitute it with dairy-free cheese if necessary, or simply skip it for a different yet still delightful flavor!

Can I add other toppings to my tacos?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely customize your tacos with a variety of toppings. Consider adding avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. Each topping you add will create a unique flavor profile, making your tacos truly your own!