Chicken Birria Tacos – Comfort Food Meals

Before diving into the enchanting world of chicken birria tacos, it's essential to consider what to pair with this dish to truly elevate your dining experience. These tacos have a depth of flavor that deserves complementary sides.

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy, seasoned rice, infused with herbs and spices, balances the savory tacos beautifully.
   
2. Black Beans: A side of black beans adds protein and a hearty finish, plus they pair perfectly with the flavors of birria.
   
3. Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn slathered with mayo, cheese, and lime provides a sweet and smoky contrast that excites the palate.
   
4. Guacamole: This creamy dip offers a refreshing element that cools down the warmth of the spices found in the tacos.
   
5. Pickled Red Onions: Adding a tangy zing, pickled red onions brighten the flavor profile and add visual appeal to your meal.
   

If you’ve never tasted chicken birria tacos, you’re in for a treat. The first time I tried them, I couldn’t believe how delicious they were. Juicy chicken, rich spices, and the perfect crunch of fresh toppings all wrapped in warm tortillas—it’s a taste sensation that lingers long after the last bite. And the best part? It’s relatively easy to make, especially if you have some leftover chicken or a rotisserie bird on hand.

As a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I’m passionate about sharing recipes that everyone can enjoy. In today’s post, you’ll not only learn how to make chicken birria tacos, but also discover why you’ll fall in love with them, the ingredients you need, and tips to ensure your cooking process is seamless.

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What are Chicken Birria Tacos?

Chicken birria tacos are a delightful variation of traditional Mexican birria, which is typically made with beef. The dish hails from the Jalisco region of Mexico. Over the years, this dish has transcended its origins and evolved into a beloved taco, featuring tender, flavorful chicken.

The magic happens when the chicken is slow-cooked in a broth infused with rich spices and herbs. After the chicken is shredded, it’s tucked inside soft corn tortillas and often served with a side of the savory broth for dipping. It’s a dish that caters to both the eyes and the palate.

Why You'll Love Chicken Birria Tacos

Let me tell you why chicken birria tacos will quickly become one of your go-to meals. First and foremost, flavor is king. The blend of spices in the chicken birria is balanced perfectly. Each bite delivers a savory punch seasoned with garlic, spices, and just a hint of sweetness to balance the heat.

Texture is another important aspect. The contrast between the crispy edges of a lightly fried corn tortilla and the tender shredded chicken creates an appealing bite. And let's not forget the toppings: fresh cilantro, soft cheese, and zesty lime all enhance the overall experience, making each taco a standalone masterpiece.

These tacos are friendly to your schedule too. You can prepare them with ease, using leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken. They are perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Chicken Birria Tacos

To create these tasty tacos, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 3–4 cups shredded cooked chicken—rotisserie or homemade both work great.
  
• Sauce:
  
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
    
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
    
  • 2 tsp honey or packed brown sugar (adjust based on heat preference)
    
  • 2 dried chiles de árbol (adjust for heat)
    
  • 1 medium white onion, quartered
    
  • 1 tsp sea salt
    
  • ½ tsp extra virgin olive oil
    
  • 3–4 dried guajillo chiles, seeds removed
    
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
    
  • 1 Tbsp tomato paste
    
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
    
  • 4 whole garlic cloves
    
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
    
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
    
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
    
  • 2 ripe Roma tomatoes, quartered
    
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
    
• Tacos & Toppings:
  
  • ½ cup fresh pico de gallo
    
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or pepper jack/Oaxacan cheese)
    
  • 1 lime, sliced
    
  • 12–15 corn tortillas
    
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
    

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by gathering all the ingredients for the sauce. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the quartered onion in olive oil until it’s translucent. This will take about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic cloves and stir continuously until they’re fragrant, which should take an additional minute or so.

Step 2: Blend the Spices

Next, incorporate the dried chiles de árbol and guajillo chiles into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and then toss in the diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, sea salt, honey, black pepper, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer the Chicken

Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

While the sauce simmers, shred the cooked chicken if it’s not already done. Once the sauce is ready, take it off the heat and use an immersion blender to purée it until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, a regular blender will work; just ensure to blend in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Combine

Return the shredded chicken to the blended sauce, ensuring every piece is well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 6: Toast the Tortillas

While the chicken absorbs the flavors, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Toast each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are warm and pliable. This step is crucial for achieving a taco that doesn’t tear easily.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos

Now, go ahead and fill each tortilla with a generous amount of the chicken mixture. Top with fresh pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving.

Notes: Five Tips for Success

• Use Good Quality Chicken: Whether rotisserie or homemade, the quality of your chicken significantly impacts flavor. Opt for organic or free-range chicken when possible.
  
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer milder tacos, reduce the amount of chiles or remove the seeds.
  
• Let It Rest: After assembling the tacos, let them sit for a couple of minutes. This allows the tortillas to absorb some moisture, making them even more flavorful.
  
• Double the Recipe: These tacos freeze exceptionally well. Make a double batch and store in the freezer for those busy weeknights.
  
• Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings. Sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even a drizzle of crema can enhance the experience.
  

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers—and trust me, it’s likely—you can store your chicken birria taco filling in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. To freeze, portion out the filling and place it in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It should keep well for around three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

The nutritional content per serving of chicken birria tacos (about two tacos) is approximately:

• Calories: 450
  
• Protein: 30g
  
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  
• Fat: 15g
  
• Fiber: 5g
  

This can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

1. Classic Lime Wedge: Adding a fresh lime wedge brightens the flavor profile significantly.
   
2. Creamy Avocado Sauce: A drizzle of avocado sauce adds creaminess and pairs beautifully with the tacos.
   
3. Salsa Verde: The tangy nature of salsa verde complements the savory notes of the chicken.
   
4. Chopped Radishes: These add a crunchy texture and a peppery flavor that enhances the overall dish.
   
5. Cabbage Slaw: A colorful slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and cilantro tossed in a vinegar dressing adds freshness.
   

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chicken Birria Tacos?

1. Pork: Substitute chicken with pork shoulder for a richer flavor. The process remains largely the same, and the result is equally delicious.
   
2. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with jackfruit for a delightful plant-based option that absorbs the spices beautifully.
   
3. Beef: If you prefer the traditional style, feel free to use cooked beef instead, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
   
4. Fish: Use flaky white fish for a lighter version of these tacos. Just be mindful to handle the fish gently to prevent it from breaking apart.
   
5. Tofu: For a vegetarian delight, marinated firm tofu works great. Cube and pan-fry until golden.
   

Conclusion

In summary, chicken birria tacos offer a delightful culinary experience that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The rich, complex flavors make them stand out, while their versatility ensures that everyone at the table will find something to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a comforting meal at home, these tacos are a perfect choice. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to impress. Happy cooking!

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