Description

These Fried Chicken Street Corn Tacos with Jalapeño Lime Ranch are the ultimate flavor-packed handheld meal! Crispy fried chicken, creamy street corn, and a zesty, spicy ranch sauce all wrapped in a warm tortilla—perfect for taco night!

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Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

Chicken Breast (2, cut into strips) – Tender and juicy.
Buttermilk (1 cup) – Keeps the chicken moist and tender.
Flour (1 cup) – For a crispy coating.
Cornstarch (½ cup) – Ensures extra crunch.
Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds mild smokiness.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasoning.
Vegetable Oil (for frying) – For deep frying.

For the Street Corn Topping:

Corn Kernels (1 ½ cups, grilled or canned & drained) – Sweet and smoky.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup) – The creamy base.
Cotija Cheese (¼ cup, crumbled) – Adds salty, tangy richness.
Lime Juice (1 tbsp) – For a fresh citrus kick.
Chili Powder (½ tsp) – Classic street corn spice.
Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped) – For freshness.

For the Jalapeño Lime Ranch:

Sour Cream (½ cup) – Creamy base for the sauce.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup) – Adds richness.
Lime Juice (2 tbsp) – Balances the flavors.
Jalapeño (1, seeded & minced) – Spicy kick.
Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Extra depth of flavor.
Fresh Cilantro (2 tbsp, chopped) – Brightens the sauce.
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – To enhance the flavors.

For the Tacos:

Small Corn or Flour Tortillas (8) – The perfect base.
Extra Cilantro & Cotija Cheese (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken strips in a bowl with buttermilk. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Prep the Breading & Fry

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat oil in a deep pan over 350°F (175°C). Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown (5–7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Street Corn Topping

In a bowl, combine the grilled corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro. Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Jalapeño Lime Ranch

Blend or mix all ranch ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet. Place a piece of crispy fried chicken on each tortilla, top with the street corn mixture, and drizzle with jalapeño lime ranch. Garnish with extra cilantro and cotija cheese.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Serve immediately with lime wedges and enjoy the crispy, creamy, and spicy flavors in every bite!

Notes

Double Dredge for Extra Crunch – Dip in buttermilk and flour twice.
Use Fresh Corn if Possible – Grill it for a smoky taste.
Make the Ranch Ahead – The flavors deepen over time.

Storage: Fried chicken is best fresh but can be stored in the fridge for 2 days and reheated in the oven.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired