Name: Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Bacon & Jalapeño Ranch Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders; 1 cup Pickle Juice (for marinating); 1 cup Buttermilk (or mix regular milk with vinegar); 1 cup Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (to create crispy coating); 1 teaspoon Spices (Garlic Powder, Paprika, etc.) (adjust to taste); vegetable oil Vegetable Oil (for frying); 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (or whole wheat); 4 slices Bacon (or turkey bacon); 1 cup Chuy’s Creamy Jalapeño Sauce (or store-bought ranch); 2 cups Street Corn Salad (mix of blackened corn, scallions, lime zest, and garlic); 2 pieces Lime Wedges (for serving)

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You won’t believe how easy it is to elevate your taco game with these Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Bacon and Jalapeño Lime Ranch! Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy fried chicken, smoky bacon, and a zesty street corn salad, all piled high in a warm, golden tortilla. This recipe not only brings comfort food to the forefront but also promises a burst of delightful flavors that’ll have your family and friends clamoring for more. Perfect for a casual dinner or a laid-back gathering, you’ll find that these tacos are quick to whip up, making them a go-to choice in your culinary repertoire. Ready to embark on this tasty adventure and impress everyone around you?

Why Are These Tacos So Irresistible?

Crispy Chicken Delight: Each bite features tender, fried chicken coated to perfection, providing a crunch that balances beautifully with every other ingredient.

Smokiness of Bacon: The addition of smoky bacon elevates the flavor profile, creating a savory depth that makes these tacos truly unique.

Creamy Jalapeño Ranch: Drizzling creamy jalapeño ranch over the tacos infuses a zesty kick, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these tacos are a fantastic option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Family-Friendly Favorite: Not just for taco enthusiasts—these Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos are bound to please even the pickiest eaters, making them perfect for family dinners.

Incorporate Freshness: Top with a vibrant street corn salad that brings brightness and texture, reminiscent of summer BBQs, alongside other delightful options like Cheesy Bacon Ranch or a refreshing Thai Chicken Salad.

Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenders – The star ingredient; provides the crispy, tender bite that everyone loves.
• Pickle Juice – Ideal for marinating, it boosts flavor and tenderness; apple cider vinegar works as a great substitute.
• Buttermilk – Enhances moisture and flavor; if unavailable, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar.
• Flour – Coating that delivers a crunchy exterior; for a gluten-free alternative, try using gluten-free flour.
• Cornstarch – A secret to a crispy coating; you can use additional flour if you run out.
• Spices (Garlic Powder, Paprika, etc.) – Tailor the seasonings to your liking to elevate the taste profile.
• Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point.

For the Tacos
• Flour Tortillas – The base that wraps all the goodness; whole wheat tortillas can add a nutritious twist.
• Bacon – Infuses smokiness into each taco; consider turkey bacon for a lighter option.

For the Toppings
• Chuy’s Creamy Jalapeño Sauce – A must-have topping that adds a zesty kick; store-bought ranch can save time if needed.
• Street Corn Salad – A delicious mix of blackened corn, scallions, lime zest, and garlic; canned corn is a quick substitute.
• Lime Wedges – Provides brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the tacos.

These Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Bacon and Jalapeño Lime Ranch make for an irresistible meal perfect for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Bacon and Jalapeno Lime Ranch

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine pickle juice and buttermilk, stirring until well blended. Submerge the chicken tenders in the marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness. This step will ensure your chicken is perfectly juicy and flavorful in the Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos.

Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating by whisking together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and other chosen spices in a shallow dish. In another bowl, mix the remaining buttermilk with a splash of hot sauce for added kick. This dual-coating method will create that irresistible crunch on the chicken tenders for your tacos.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large cast iron skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom, about a quarter inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F; you can test readiness by dropping in a small piece of bread, which should sizzle immediately. This hot oil is essential for achieving a crispy exterior on your chicken.

Step 4: Coat Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken tenders from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture. First, dip each tender into the flour mixture, then back into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with the flour mixture again. Allow the coated chicken to rest for a few minutes, which helps the breading adhere better during frying.

Step 5: Fry Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil in batches; avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Fry Tortillas
In a separate skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Fry the flour tortillas for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they’re golden and pliable but not brittle. Drain the fried tortillas on paper towels to remove excess oil, ensuring they’re ready to hold all the delicious fillings of your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos.

Step 7: Assemble Tacos
To assemble your tacos, place a crispy fried chicken tender inside each tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of street corn salad and drizzle with the creamy jalapeno ranch dressing. Be sure to serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges on the side for that perfect zesty finish that elevates your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing these Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken tenders in pickle juice and buttermilk up to 24 hours ahead of time, ensuring the meat is flavorful and tender. Additionally, the street corn salad can be mixed up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, fry the chicken and tortillas, assemble your tacos, and drizzle with creamy jalapeño ranch—these final steps keep everything just as delicious as if you made them fresh that day! Enjoy quick, satisfying meals at your leisure!

Expert Tips for Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Marinate Wisely: Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. Overnight maximizes flavor and tenderness for your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos.

Perfect Coating: Use one hand for wet and another for dry ingredients when breading; this prevents clumping and ensures an even coat on your chicken.

Temperature Control: Fry in small batches to preserve oil temperature. This keeps your chicken crispy instead of soggy, creating the ideal crunch for your tacos.

Test Your Oil: Use a small piece of bread to test if the oil is hot enough. If it bubbles immediately, it’s ready for frying the chicken.

Rest the Chicken: Let your breaded chicken rest briefly before frying. This helps the coating adhere better, resulting in a deliciously crunchy bite.

How to Store and Freeze Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain optimum crispiness.

Freezer: If you’ve made extra chicken, freeze it separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the fried chicken in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes; this keeps it crunchy.

Tortillas: If you have extra tortillas, store them in the fridge wrapped in foil for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos Variations

Feel free to explore these fun twists to amp up your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos experience! Each suggestion adds a unique flair that can tantalize your taste buds.

Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken tenders with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist. Marinate the shrimp similarly and enjoy a refreshing contrast in flavors.
Tofu Alternative: For a plant-based option, use marinated tofu instead of chicken. Keep the spices vibrant to ensure every bite still packs a punch.
Crispy Corn Tortillas: Instead of flour tortillas, opt for crispy corn tortillas for an added crunch that enhances the taco experience.
Extra Spice: Add diced jalapeños to the street corn salad for an extra kick! The vibrant heat will beautifully complement the creaminess of the ranch.
Herbed Ranch: Elevate your dipping sauce by mixing fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into the ranch. This gives a fresh twist that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the tacos.
Sweet Corn Relish: Try topping with a sweet corn relish made with diced red onion, tomatoes, and lime juice for a burst of freshness and sweetness.
Fiery Chipotle Sauce: Swap the jalapeño ranch for a smoky chipotle mayo to bring a bold depth that will make every bite irresistible.

Pair these variations with delightful side dishes to create an even more memorable meal. Your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos will stand proudly alongside other favorites like Mexican Street Corn or a comforting Chicken Rice Casserole. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos

Complete your culinary fiesta with delightful sides and drinks that enhance the vibrant flavors of your tacos.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside homemade tortilla chips for extra crunch, perfect for dipping in zesty salsa or guacamole.
Fresh Avocado Salad: A light, refreshing avocado salad adds creaminess and balances the spices in your tacos beautifully.
Street Corn Salad: Use any leftover street corn salad as a side for a cohesive theme; its sweetness complements the savory tacos.
Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful grilled vegetables bring a smoky char and they’re easy to prep alongside your main dish.
Classic Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, cutting through the richness of the fried chicken.
Margaritas: A refreshing margarita pairs perfectly with the flavors of your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos, making for an irresistible combination.
Lime Sorbet: Finish the meal with a light and zesty lime sorbet; it’s a refreshing way to cleanse your palate after the rich flavors.
Spicy Pickles: These add a tangy and spicy kick that complements the creamy jalapeño ranch sauce beautifully.
Mexican Street Corn Dip: A cheesy and flavorful dip that mirrors the street corn topping gives guests something to snack on before the main event.
Pineapple Agua Fresca: Cool off with this sweet, refreshing drink that counterpoints the spices found in the tacos.

Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Bacon & Jalapeño Ranch Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken tenders for my tacos?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenders, look for those that are plump and have a uniform shape. Fresh, pink meat without any dark spots or bruises is ideal. If possible, choose organic chicken for more flavor and better quality. If you prefer, boneless chicken thighs can also be a fantastic replacement for extra juiciness.

What’s the best way to store leftover tacos?
To keep your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos fresh, store the components separately. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain that delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
Very much! If you’ve made extra fried chicken, let it cool down completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For using later, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven to keep it crispy and delicious.

What should I do if my chicken coating isn’t crispy?
If you’re finding that your chicken isn’t getting that coveted crunch, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying—it should be around 350°F. Additionally, be mindful of not overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Lastly, letting your breaded chicken sit for a few minutes before frying can help the coating adhere better and crisp up nicely!

Are these tacos suitable for family members with dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with gluten-free flour and cornstarch. If someone has a dairy allergy, try using a non-dairy milk in place of buttermilk and omit any cheese toppings. Always ensure that other ingredients like sauces are also allergy-friendly.

How long can I keep the street corn salad?
The street corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, consider adding the lime juice just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. Enjoying it chilled adds a refreshing touch to your tacos!

These tips will ensure that your Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Bacon and Jalapeño Lime Ranch are a hit every time you make them. Happy cooking!