Introduction

Mexican street corn, known as Elote, is a beloved dish that's made with grilled corn, cotija cheese, lime, and a variety of seasonings. When you combine the flavors of Elote with tender chicken wrapped in warm tortillas, you’ve got a meal that is bursting with deliciousness and texture. These Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos are perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

The symphony of flavors integrates the smokiness from grilled chicken, the crunch of corn, and a zesty sauce, all complemented by the warmth of the tortillas. Not only are these tacos enjoyable, but they're also quite simple to prepare, making them accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. With summer on the horizon, there’s no better time to bring this fresh, vibrant meal to your table.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Using cooked and shredded chicken makes it easy to infuse flavor and texture into the tacos without the lengthy process of cooking raw chicken. It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Corn is the heart of this dish, contributing sweetness, crunch, and a vibrant color. It mirrors the classic Elote flavor and adds a delightful pop to each bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Olive oil helps in sautéing the corn and adds a hint of richness. It also aids in the browning process, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your filling.
1 teaspoon chili powder
This spice introduces warmth and a touch of earthiness to the dish, emulating the typical spices used in street corn toppings. Adjust the amount to suit your spice level.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Smoked paprika delivers a lovely smoky flavor, reminiscent of grilled street corn, and creates depth in the taco filling that pairs beautifully with chicken.
1/4 cup mayonnaise
Mayonnaise adds creaminess to balance the spices and helps the other toppings stick to the corn mixture, creating a cohesive flavor experience.
1/4 cup sour cream
Sour cream brightens the flavors with its tanginess and complements the richness of the mayo, making the taco filling luscious and satisfying.
2 tablespoons lime juice
Lime juice offers a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauces. It brightens the dish and enhances the overall taste.
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
Cotija cheese adds a salty, crumbly texture that is quintessential for Mexican street corn. It elevates the dish with its unique flavor and creates a satisfying contrast.
8 small tortillas (corn or flour)
The tortillas serve as the base for your tacos, providing the necessary vehicle for the filling. Choose between corn or flour, depending on your preference.
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note to the tacos. It also brightens the presentation, giving the tacos a pop of color.
Lime wedges, for serving
Lime wedges provide a lively burst of acidity when squeezed over the tacos, enhancing the overall flavor and making each bite more refreshing.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Shredding pre-cooked chicken is a time-efficient way to start this dish. If you have leftovers from a rotisserie chicken, those will work perfectly. Make sure you have enough chicken to fill at least 8 tacos; this is a crowd-pleaser.

Step 2: Sauté the Corn

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat before adding the corn. Sautéing allows the corn to caramelize slightly, producing a sweeter, more flavorful base for your taco filling. This step also ensures the corn is heated through.

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

Once the corn is sautéed, add chili powder and smoked paprika, stirring well to coat the corn evenly. The warmth of these spices will enhance the overall flavor, bringing the essence of Elote into your tacos.

Step 4: Combine with Chicken and Sauces

Transfer the cooked corn into the bowl with shredded chicken. Add mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring that the chicken and corn are evenly coated, which makes for a flavorful filling.

Step 5: Add Cotija Cheese

Fold in crumbled cotija cheese last to ensure it maintains its texture. The cheese will provide pops of flavor in each bite, embodying the essence of street corn and enriching the filling.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas

Warming the tortillas makes them pliable and enhances their flavor. You can either use a skillet to heat them or wrap them in foil and warm them briefly in the oven. This small detail significantly improves the taco experience.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Spoon the chicken and corn mixture onto each tortilla, distributing it evenly. Top with additional cotija, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice to bring all the flavors together.

Step 8: Serve

Arrange the tacos on a platter, served with lime wedges. The presentation should be inviting, with a vibrant mix of colors. Encourage your guests to customize with extra lime juice or toppings.

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos step photo

The Heart of Street Corn: Corn Goodness

Corn is not only a staple of Mexican cuisine but also a vital player in this recipe. Using fresh or frozen corn boosts the dish with its natural sweetness and crunch, reminiscent of enjoying street corn on a hot summer day. When sautéed, corn develops a caramelized exterior, adding depth of flavor that enhances the chicken.

Harnessing Flavor with Cotija Cheese

Cotija cheese, often dubbed the 'Parmesan of Mexico,' is a crucial ingredient when replicating authentic street corn flavors. Its salty, crumbly texture not only elevates the dish but also adds a creamy dimension that complements the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture beautifully. Don't shy away from generous portions!

Taco Assembly: The Art of Layering

Layering is an essential part of taco assembly to create a balanced bite. Start with a base of your chicken and corn mix, then add a sprinkle of cotija and fresh cilantro to ensure freshness. Finally, a squeeze of lime juice brightens everything. The balance of textures and flavors in your taco is what will truly impress everyone at the table.

FAQs

What’s the best way to season the chicken?

Season your chicken with lime juice, salt, and pepper after shredding. For added flavor, you can marinate it before cooking.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use queso fresco or feta cheese as substitutes for cotija. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture.

What if the corn mixture is too thick?

If your corn mixture is too thick, consider adding a small amount of chicken broth or extra lime juice to loosen it without sacrificing flavor.

How can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?

To scale up, simply multiply each ingredient by your desired number of servings while maintaining the same cooking times.

Can I add other toppings to my tacos?

Absolutely! Ripe avocado, salsa, or pickled onions make excellent additions that enhance flavors and textures.

Is grilled chicken necessary or can I use another protein?

Grilled chicken is ideal for flavor, but shredded beef or even grilled veggies can work as alternatives.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos bring together the laid-back vibe of street food with the comfort of home-cooked meals. They’re not just tacos; they’re a celebration of flavor and culture, making them a hit for all occasions.

Embrace the vibrant flavors and easy preparation that these tacos offer. Whether it’s a summer fiesta or a cozy weeknight dinner, they are sure to become a favorite recipe in your culinary repertoire.

Recipe Card

Print Pin