Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Jalapeño Lime Ranch

Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Jalapeño Lime Ranch 🌮🔥🧀

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a flavor-packed and irresistibly crunchy meal, look no further than these fried chicken street corn tacos with a zesty jalapeño lime ranch. Combining the crispy goodness of fried chicken with the sweet, smoky taste of street corn, topped with a tangy ranch dressing infused with jalapeños and lime, this recipe offers a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether for a quick dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos will satisfy any craving for authentic Mexican street food with an exciting twist. Learn how to make these fried chicken tacos that are both flavorful and fulfilling.

2. Ingredients for Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Jalapeño Lime Ranch

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup grilled street corn or canned corn, charred if possible
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

3. Preparing the Fried Chicken for Your Tacos

Season and Coat the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes; this tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Take the chicken strips out of the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then coat them thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated for that perfect crispy texture.

Frying the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken strips in batches, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-6 minutes). Remove the fried chicken and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. For ultimate crispiness, the fried chicken tacos should feature crunchy, flavorful fried chicken pieces.

4. Preparing the Street Corn Topping

Char or Cook the Corn

If using fresh corn, grill or char on a stovetop grill pan until slightly blackened and smoky, then cut the kernels off the cob. If using canned corn, simply drain and sauté lightly in a skillet for a roasted flavor. This step imparts the authentic street corn taste that makes fried chicken street corn tacos uniquely delicious.

Mixing the Street Corn Topping

Combine the cooked corn with a bit of mayonnaise, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a dash of chili powder. For an extra smoky flavor, add a touch of smoked paprika. The street corn topping adds smoky sweetness and creaminess to your tacos, elevating the overall flavor profile.

5. Crafting the Jalapeño Lime Ranch Sauce

Prepare the Ranch

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and finely chopped jalapeños. Adjust the heat level according to taste; for milder sauce, remove seeds from the jalapeños. Add a pinch of salt and fresh chopped cilantro if desired. This jalapeño lime ranch offers a spicy tang that complements the crispy fried chicken and sweet street corn beautifully. For more sauce ideas, explore other flavorful taco sauces.

6. Assembling the Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Build Your Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Spread a generous spoonful of jalapeño lime ranch on each tortilla. Layer with crispy fried chicken strips, then add a spoonful of street corn topping. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and extra jalapeños if desired. The combination of textures—crispy chicken, creamy ranch, and charred corn—creates a taco experience unlike any other.

7. Storage Tips and Variations

To store leftovers, keep fried chicken, street corn, and jalapeño lime ranch separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the fried chicken in the oven or air fryer to retain its crunch. For variations, consider adding diced avocado, cheese, or salsa for extra flavor. These fried chicken street corn tacos are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

8. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve these tacos with chilled craft beer, a refreshing limeade, or a light Mexican soda such as Jarritos. For an added bite, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and squeeze lime juice just before serving. These fried chicken tacos with street corn and jalapeño lime ranch are perfect for sharing at casual gatherings or enjoying as a satisfying weeknight dinner.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, these fried chicken street corn tacos with a spicy jalapeño lime ranch sauce deliver a delightful explosion of flavors, textures, and heat. Combining crispy fried chicken with smoky street corn and a tangy ranch dressing makes for an irresistible dish that redefines taco pleasure. Whether you’re a lover of authentic street food or looking to elevate your taco game, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy crafting these delicious tacos and indulge in a truly memorable Mexican-inspired feast!

Print