There’s something truly satisfying about taking a bite of a taco that’s packed with flavor and texture. When I was brainstorming a meal that could easily bridge the gap between a weeknight dinner and a little gourmet experience, these Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos with Creamy Charred Corn Salsa jumped to mind. Picture this: the smoky essence of chipotle, mixed with sweet honey and the zesty kick from jalapeño, all cradled in a crispy tortilla.
What really sets these tacos apart is the velvety avocado crema paired with a refreshing corn salsa that has just the right char to elevate every bite. It’s a celebration of vibrant flavors! Plus, the fact that it all comes together in just a short time makes it perfect for busy nights when you crave something homemade yet exciting. Trust me, once you serve these at your next gathering or simply for a family night in, you might just earn your spot as the taco hero in your kitchen!
Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos – why are they irresistible?
Boldly flavorful, these tacos combine smoky chipotle with sweet honey, creating a captivating taste sensation. Quick and easy to prepare, they come together in just 20 minutes, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Crispy tortillas add that delightful crunch while creamy avocado crema and vibrant corn salsa elevate every bite. Perfect for gatherings, they will turn any meal into a festive occasion!
Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Taco Ingredients
• Get ready to make these delectable tacos!
For the Chicken Mix
- Extra virgin olive oil – enhances the chicken’s flavor and adds moisture.
- Boneless skinless chicken tenders or cubed thighs – tender meat that absorbs the chipotle BBQ flavor beautifully.
- Smoked paprika – infuses a warm, smoky essence that complements the chipotle chili powder.
- Chipotle chili powder – brings a delightful kick, making these tacos irresistibly spicy.
- Garlic powder – adds depth and aroma, enhancing all the other flavors.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4-1/2 teaspoon) – adjust according to your heat preference for the perfect flavor balance.
- Fresh thyme leaves – provide a fresh herbal note that lightens the dish.
- Kosher salt – essential for enhancing the overall flavors.
For the Sauce
- Ketchup – acts as the base for a sweet and tangy sauce that ties everything together.
- Honey – adds sweetness that balances the heat from the spices.
- Dijon mustard – lends a subtle tang that brightens the sauce.
- Your favorite beer or chicken broth (3/4 cup) – adds depth; choose a flavor you enjoy sipping!
For the Tacos
- Corn tortillas (8-12) – the perfect vessel for holding all those delicious fillings; warm them up for flexibility.
- Shredded Mexican cheese (1 cup) – melts beautifully, adding richness to the tacos.
For the Avocado Crema
- Large avocados (2) – creamy base that brings a luxurious element to the dish.
- Lime juice (from 2 limes) – brightens the crema and adds a refreshing zing.
For the Corn Salsa
- Grilled or roasted corn (2 cups) – sweet and smoky, it’s the star ingredient of the salsa.
- Jalapeño (1, seeded and chopped) – adds a crisp, spicy crunch to the mix.
- Fresh cilantro (1/2 cup, roughly chopped) – a burst of freshness to balance the richness.
- Chopped fresh chives (2 tablespoons) – additional flavor and a pop of color.
This combination not only results in flavorful crispy chipotle BBQ chicken tacos but also offers a delightful experience for your taste buds! Enjoy crafting these delicious tacos in your kitchen!
How to Make Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos
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Sauté the Chicken: In a large pot, combine the olive oil, chicken, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, and salt. Cook over medium-high heat until the spices are fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Simmer with Sauce: Lower the heat and add ketchup, honey, dijon mustard, and beer. Stir well and let the mixture simmer on low for 20 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more beer to keep it saucy.
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Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it using two forks and set it aside for stuffing in the tacos. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
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Make the Avocado Crema: In a blender, combine the avocados and lime juice, then blend until smooth and creamy. A little salt will enhance the flavor!
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Prepare the Corn Salsa: In a bowl, mix together the grilled corn, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, chives, and a couple spoonfuls of the avocado crema for a delightful zing. Season with salt to taste.
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Assemble Tacos: Warm the tortillas in the microwave until pliable, about 30 seconds. Brush olive oil on a baking sheet, lay out the tortillas, and fill with cheese and BBQ chicken. Fold and press gently to seal.
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Bake Until Crispy: Transfer the filled tortillas to the preheated oven and bake for 5-8 minutes. Flip the tacos and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Top each taco with a generous dollop of avocado crema, a portion of corn salsa, and some fresh cilantro for extra flavor!
Optional: Squeeze extra lime juice over the tacos for an added zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Taco Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these scrumptious tacos to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a tasty plant-based option. You won’t miss the meat with the smoky and zesty flavors still shining through.
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave a little extra heat, add finely chopped habanero or serrano peppers to the chicken mix. This fiery twist will make your taste buds dance with excitement!
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Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas made from 100% corn, which are naturally gluten-free, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy these crispy delights without worry.
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Sweet Earthiness: Mix in some roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash in the taco filling for a delightful sweetness that complements the chipotle flavor beautifully.
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Creamy Avocado Alternative: If you’re in a pinch, swap fresh avocados for store-bought guacamole to save time. Though not the same, it still delivers that creamy texture and fresh taste.
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Cheesy Upgraded: Try adding a sprinkle of queso fresco or cotija cheese on top of the tacos for a rich, tangy twist to the standard shredded cheese.
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Cilantro-Free: If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, substitute it with parsley or green onions in the corn salsa for a refreshing tweak that maintains all the crunch.
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Taco Bowl: Transform these tacos into a hearty taco bowl by layering the chipotle chicken, corn salsa, and avocado crema over a bed of rice or quinoa, making for a nourishing meal!
Let your culinary journey guide you; these variations can elevate your taco game in delightful ways!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos with Creamy Corn Salsa are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and the avocado crema up to 24 hours in advance. For the chicken, simply finish cooking it, shred it, and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The avocado crema can be blended and refrigerated in a sealed container to keep it fresh (adding a little lime juice helps prevent browning). You can also make the corn salsa a day ahead, ensuring bright flavors. When you’re ready to serve, just warm the chicken and tortillas, assemble, and bake for that delicious, crispy finish!
Expert Tips for Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos
• Chicken Perfection: Ensure your chicken is well-coated with the spice mix to absorb all the flavors, leading to irresistibly tasty tacos.
• Crema Consistency: Blend the avocado crema to your desired smoothness; you want it creamy, but not too runny, to hold up well on the tacos.
• Corn Salsa Balance: Use fresh, grilled corn for a sweeter note in the corn salsa; this brings a delightful crunch and elevates the overall taste of your tacos.
• Tortilla Technique: Warm tortillas are essential for easy folding; don’t skip this step, or they may crack when you assemble your crispy chipotle BBQ chicken tacos.
• Layering Cheese: When filling the tacos, layer cheese both below and above the chicken for optimal cheesy goodness and adherence of the taco folds.
What to Serve with Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos?
There’s nothing quite like a fiesta of flavors to accompany your delicious tacos, creating a truly memorable meal.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A light and zesty rice dish that pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the tacos.
- Black Beans: Hearty and protein-packed, they add a wonderful creaminess that complements the spice of the chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Colorful veggies brushed with olive oil bring a smoky sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the chipotle heat.
For a delightful crunch, consider adding some fresh homemade tortilla chips with guacamole. This duo makes for a fantastic appetizer prior to the main event. Don’t forget a refreshing pitcher of homemade margaritas to sip while you feast, enhancing your taco night with a fun, festive touch!
Storage Tips for Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, wrap each taco individually before placing them together.
Freezer: If you’re looking to prolong the life of your tacos, freeze them without toppings for up to 2 months. Ensure they’re wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: For best results, reheat tacos in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring the tortillas stay crispy.
Avocado Crema: If you have leftover avocado crema, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, add a thin layer of lime juice on top before sealing.
Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema and Corn Salsa Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken is the right choice?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for your tacos, look for boneless skinless tenders or thighs that have a pinkish hue and no dark spots. Fresh chicken should have a mild scent. If your chicken has a strong odor or discoloration, it’s best to avoid it.
How long can I store leftover tacos, and what’s the best method?
You can store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh and prevent sogginess, I recommend wrapping each taco individually in plastic wrap before placing them together in the container. If you’d like to enjoy them later, consider freezing, which we’ll cover next!
Can I freeze these tacos and how?
Certainly! To freeze your crispy chipotle BBQ chicken tacos, first assemble them without any toppings. Wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They should stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
What if my tortillas crack when assembling?
If your tortillas are cracking, they might not be warm enough! Warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to make them pliable. Alternatively, you can lightly brush them with olive oil and heat them in a skillet for a few seconds per side until soft. This will help you fold them without any trouble!
Is the avocado crema safe for pets or allergies?
Good question! While the avocado crema is delicious, avocados can be harmful to pets, especially dogs, so it’s best to keep them away from that part of the meal. Additionally, if you or your guests have avocado allergies, you might consider substituting the crema with a yogurt-based sauce or leaving it out entirely.
How can I enhance the flavor of my corn salsa?
The more the merrier! To boost the flavor of your corn salsa, consider adding some fresh lime juice and perhaps a pinch of cumin for warmth. You can also grill the corn slightly to give it a nice char, which adds depth. Don’t hesitate to adjust the jalapeño for more heat or add diced red onion for a sweet crunch!
Crispy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Tacos with Creamy Corn Salsa Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large pot, combine olive oil, chicken, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, and salt. Cook over medium-high heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer with Sauce: Lower heat, add ketchup, honey, dijon mustard, and beer. Stir and simmer on low for 20 minutes. Add more beer if sauce thickens too much.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked through, shred the chicken and set aside for tacos. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Make the Avocado Crema: Blend avocados and lime juice until smooth. Season with a little salt.
- Prepare the Corn Salsa: Mix grilled corn, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, chives, and some avocado crema. Season with salt to taste.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm tortillas until pliable. Brush olive oil on a baking sheet, lay out tortillas, fill with cheese and BBQ chicken, fold and press to seal.
- Bake Until Crispy: Bake filled tortillas for 5-8 minutes, flip, and bake for another 5 minutes, or until crispy and cheese is melted.
- Serve and Enjoy: Top tacos with avocado crema, corn salsa, and fresh cilantro. Optional: Squeeze lime juice for extra zing.