Chicken Birria Tacos

If you’re craving a delicious Mexican dinner, this Chicken Birria Tacos recipe is exactly what you need. With savory shredded chicken and a crispy cheesy shell, they’re hard to resist and so easy! Perfect for family gatherings, casual weeknight meals, or game day feasts, these tacos deliver bold flavors and delightful textures that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of total time, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and savory chicken creates a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Whether for a party or a family dinner, these tacos fit perfectly into any occasion.
• Crispy Cheese Shells: The cheesy exterior adds a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken filling.
• Leftover Friendly: These tacos taste even better the next day, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Birria Tacos efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Cast Iron Pan
• Cooking Spoon
• Measuring Cups
• Knife
• Cutting Board

Why These Tools Matter

• Cast Iron Pan: It provides even heat distribution and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on your tortillas.
• Cooking Spoon: A sturdy spoon is essential for mixing ingredients and flipping tortillas without damaging them.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in this flavorful dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 Rotisserie Chicken
– 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder
– 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
– 2 teaspoons Cumin
– 2 Cups Shredded Mexican Cheese
– 12 Corn Tortillas
– Vegetable Oil
– 1 Can Red Enchilada Sauce (10oz can)
– 1 Cup Coke (or Dr. Pepper or Root beer broth, no diet or zero sugar)
– 2 1/3 Cups Light Brown Sugar (see note)
– 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
– 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon Water*

How to Make Chicken Birria Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Toss the shredded chicken in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder until well coated.
2. Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in a cast iron pan over medium heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and brown it slightly before transferring it into a pot with the enchilada sauce and Coke (or Root beer broth).

Step 2: Cook the Tortillas

1. Keep the cast iron pan on medium-high heat and add a little more vegetable oil along with a spoonful of sauce from the pot.
2. Place one corn tortilla in the pan; cook for about 30 seconds until it starts to soften.
3. Flip the tortilla quickly; add a scoop of the shredded chicken mixture and sprinkle cheese on one half before folding it over.
4. Cook each side until browned and crispy.

Step 3: Serve

Serve your Chicken Birria Tacos hot with extra sauce on the side and pico de gallo for added flavor! Enjoy every bite of these delightful tacos!

How to Serve Chicken Birria Tacos

Serving chicken birria tacos is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a festive dining experience. These tacos can be paired with various sides and toppings that complement their rich, savory taste.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Onions: Finely chop white or red onions for added crunch and flavor.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the tacos.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over tacos for a zesty kick.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Red Enchilada Sauce: A side of sauce lets everyone enjoy more flavor with each bite.
• Sour Cream: Creamy sour cream provides a nice contrast to the spicy elements of the dish.

Pair with a Refreshing Drink

• Agua Fresca: Try a refreshing fruit water like hibiscus or watermelon for a sweet balance.
• Sparkling Water: A plain or flavored sparkling water can cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Chicken Birria Tacos

Perfecting chicken birria tacos involves attention to detail and using high-quality ingredients. Here are some tips to elevate your taco-making skills.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh spices to enhance the flavors in your chicken. Fresh spices offer more aroma and taste.
• Crisp Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are crispy by frying them just right; this adds texture and prevents sogginess.
• Quality Cheese: Opt for good-quality shredded Mexican cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Well-Balanced Sauce: Balance sweetness in your sauce using light brown sugar; it complements the spices beautifully.
• Proper Shredding Technique: Shred chicken finely for better distribution in each taco, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Birria Tacos

To round out your meal, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your chicken birria tacos. They will enhance your dining experience with complementary flavors and textures.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, garlic, and spices makes a perfect companion.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness that pairs well with the tacos.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime and chili powder adds a fun street food vibe.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime adds brightness to the meal.
5. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances the flavors while adding healthy fats.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa are always a crowd favorite for snacking before dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Birria Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your tacos turn out delicious.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Properly seasoning the chicken is crucial. Be sure to mix the seasonings thoroughly before adding them to enhance flavor.
• Not using enough oil: A little vegetable oil helps prevent sticking. Make sure your pan is well-greased before cooking the tortillas.
• Overfilling the tacos: Stuffing too much filling in can make it hard to cook evenly. Use a modest amount of chicken and cheese for a perfect fold.
• Skipping the crisping step: Don’t skip browning the tortillas after adding filling. This adds texture and flavor, making your tacos irresistible.
• Serving without sauce: Serving them plain is a missed opportunity. Always offer extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Birria Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover sauce in a separate container to maintain taco crispiness.

Freezing Chicken Birria Tacos

• Place tacos in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Wrap individual tacos in plastic wrap for easy reheating later.

Reheating Chicken Birria Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may lose their crispness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chicken Birria Tacos?

Chicken Birria Tacos are flavorful Mexican tacos made with tender shredded chicken, spices, and often served with a rich dipping sauce.

How do I make Chicken Birria Tacos spicier?

To add heat, include more chili powder or diced jalapeños when seasoning your chicken. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use different types of tortillas?

Yes! While corn tortillas are traditional, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer their texture and flavor.

How do I serve Chicken Birria Tacos?

Serve them hot with extra sauce on the side and toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges for added freshness.

Conclusion

Chicken Birria Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices. Ideal for any occasion, these tacos are sure to impress family and friends alike!