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Mexican Street Corn Tacos Recipe

Mexican Street Corn Tacos Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

When it comes to street food, few things can rival the delightful experience of Mexican street corn tacos. I often find myself longing for a delicious, vibrant dish that truly captures the essence of summer gatherings with friends. 
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Mexican Crema (optional):
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons taco sauce or more depending on spice preference, I recommend adding extra taco sauce for a richer flavor
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest to add a zesty kick
Street Corn:
  • 2 cups cooked corn from fresh corn on the cob or frozen white corn
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 jalapeño, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh crumbled queso fresco for added flavor
Chicken:
  • 2 lbs chicken breasts or tenderloins or thighs
  • 1/3 to 1/2 1/2 cup canola oil or extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 2 to 3 limes
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
  • 6 to 12 soft corn tortillas
  • 1 to 2 avocados, sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
  1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, canola oil, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This is where the magic begins—allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Prepare the Street Corn
  1. While the chicken is marinating, let's make that delicious street corn mixture. In a bowl, combine the cooked corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cilantro, jalapeño, green onions, and garlic salt. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated. Set it aside while you cook the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The goal is juicy, tender chicken with a slight char. Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
  1. You can’t forget the tortillas! Warm them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable. If you're feeling fancy, keep them in a towel-lined basket to maintain warmth while you finish up.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
  1. Now comes the fun part! Take a warm tortilla, layer a generous amount of the sliced chicken, then top it with the street corn mixture. Sprinkle on the Cotija cheese, and if you're feeling adventurous, add some sliced avocado. Finish with a handful of fresh cilantro for that herbal freshness.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn when in season. It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Grill the corn before mixing it into the street corn blend for a smoky flavor.
  • Add lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime just before eating enhances everything.
  • For a vegetarian option, simply skip the chicken and pile on more street corn.
  • Experiment with different cheeses. Try feta or a spicy pepper jack for a twist.