Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered my love for tacos during a summer trip to Mexico, where the street vendors serve the most incredible versions. Upon my return, I began perfecting my recipe, focusing on creating a crispy, flavorful chicken that would transport me back to those vibrant streets. After numerous trials, I created these Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn, which have become a family favorite. Now, I love sharing this recipe with everyone!"

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in Mexican cuisine and dinner recipes. My passion for cooking is fueled by my adventures in food, and I enjoy bringing traditional flavors to modern kitchens. My goal is to make cooking approachable and enjoyable for everyone.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn served on a plate

Why This Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for its perfect blend of textures and flavors. The crispy chicken is paired with sweet corn, creating a delightful contrast that elevates the dish. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch along with fresh toppings, making this taco recipe unforgettable. The seasoning is simple yet impactful, allowing the main ingredients to shine.

The technique of frying the chicken ensures it remains juicy on the inside while achieving a crispy exterior. Using fresh corn adds sweetness and a pop of freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken. Additionally, the ease of preparation makes this recipe accessible for any home cook looking to impress.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest chicken, make sure the oil is hot before frying. This helps seal the coating and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil. Always use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, and don't overcrowd the pan to maintain consistent heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time. Cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and warm the tortillas for a quick assembly. This allows for a stress-free dinner experience.

If you don't have corn, you can substitute with black beans or diced bell peppers for a similar texture. You could also use avocado or a fresh mango salsa to add sweetness. Experiment with different vegetables to customize your tacos.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the coating should be golden brown and crispy. Always cut into a piece to check that it is no longer pink inside before serving.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately from the tortillas and toppings. Place the chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat the chicken before serving with fresh tortillas and toppings.

These tacos pair well with a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with guacamole and chips for a complete meal. A refreshing drink like horchata or a margarita complements the flavors beautifully.

The cooked tacos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It's best to keep the components separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the tacos when you're ready to serve. This helps save time on busy days while still delivering a delicious meal.

To reheat, place the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Warm the tortillas separately in a pan or microwave. This method keeps the chicken crispy and ensures everything is served fresh.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may turn out dry if overcooked during frying.

Solution: To avoid dryness, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove the chicken from heat once it reaches 165°F. Marinating the chicken beforehand can also help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy, it may not have been fried at the right temperature.

Solution: Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the chicken. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can lead to tough chicken.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, watch the cooking time closely and use a thermometer to gauge doneness. Remove the chicken promptly once it reaches the ideal temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is pink in the center, it is undercooked.

Recovery: Continue cooking the chicken, checking its temperature frequently. Ensure that it reaches at least 165°F before serving.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the chicken is burnt on the outside, it may be cooked too quickly.

Prevention: Adjust the heat to medium instead of high and monitor cooking more closely to ensure even frying without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of lime juice or vinegar to balance it out.

Too Salty: To reduce saltiness, add some unsalted sour cream or avocado to mellow the flavors.

Bland: If the tacos are bland, add more seasoning to the chicken or incorporate a flavorful salsa as a topping.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn

The main ingredients for these tacos include fresh chicken, which provides protein, and sweet corn, adding texture and flavor. Tortillas serve as the base, while various toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa enhance the overall taste. Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor.

Quality matters when it comes to ingredients. Opt for organic chicken if possible, and select ripe tomatoes and fresh corn for the best results. Fresh herbs like cilantro also elevate the dish, making every bite more vibrant and delicious.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean protein option. This cut of meat cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. For extra tenderness, consider marinating the chicken in spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch to the tacos. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding. You can also experiment with other types of corn, like roasted corn for a smokier flavor.
  • Tortillas: Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for tacos and provide a wonderful flavor. Always warm them before filling, as this makes them more pliable and prevents tearing. You can also use flour tortillas if preferred.
Cooking process for Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for these tacos is straightforward yet rewarding. Start by preparing the chicken with your chosen spices, then dredge it in flour for that extra crunch. Frying the chicken until it's golden brown is key to achieving the perfect crispy texture.

As you warm the tortillas, focus on assembling the tacos as quickly as possible to keep everything fresh. The final step includes adding your favorite toppings, allowing for a customizable experience. The result is a delicious meal that's sure to be a hit.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn

The most important technique in this recipe is ensuring the chicken is fried at the right temperature. This not only contributes to the crispiness but also helps seal in the moisture. Maintaining consistent heat throughout the frying process is crucial for achieving that golden, crunchy exterior.

Crispy Chicken Tacos with Corn

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    For creaminess
  • 1 tsp lime juice
    For flavor
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
    For depth
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
    For heat

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For dredging
  • 2 cups corn tortillas
    For wrapping
  • 1 cup corn kernels
    Fresh or frozen
  • 1 tsp chili powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp cumin
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Gather all the ingredients and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.

  2. Dredge Chicken

    In a bowl, add the flour. Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken in the flour, ensuring an even coating.

  3. Fry Chicken

    In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.

  4. Warm Tortillas

    In a separate pan, warm the corn tortillas over low heat until pliable, about 30 seconds on each side.

  5. Prepare Tacos

    Assemble the tacos by placing fried chicken in each tortilla. Top with corn kernels, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa.

  6. Garnish

    Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve lime wedges on the side.

  7. Serve

    Serve the tacos warm and enjoy your delicious crispy chicken tacos with corn.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will last up to 3 days, while tortillas should be consumed within a couple of days for best texture. Reheat the chicken thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tacos with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans for a complete meal. You can also add a simple green salad to balance the flavors and add freshness to your plate.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize these tacos with your favorite ingredients. Try adding avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or different salsas. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with grilled mushrooms or jackfruit.