If you’re craving a delicious and savory Mexican dinner, this chicken birria tacos recipe is exactly what you need. Birria tacos have taken the world by storm with their rich flavors and crispy, cheesy shells, traditionally made with beef or goat. However, this recipe introduces a lighter, equally delicious alternative using chicken. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting friends, this chicken birria tacos recipe will quickly become a favorite.
What is Chicken Birria?
Chicken birria is a flavorful twist on traditional Mexican birria, which is typically made with beef or goat. In this version, chicken is marinated in a rich blend of spices, slow-cooked until tender, and then shredded to be used in tacos. This chicken birria tacos recipe delivers all the savory flavors of traditional birria with the added benefit of a lighter, leaner meat option. The tortillas are fried in a bit of oil and sauce, stuffed with juicy chicken (and cheese if you like), and then dipped in the rich broth, or consomé, for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
This chicken birria tacos recipe cuts some corners to save time without sacrificing flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Pre-shredded or broken down from a whole rotisserie chicken.
- Sweet Sauce:
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup Coke (Dr. Pepper or Root Beer also work great)
- 2 1/3 cups light brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water
- Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- Shredded Mexican Cheese: Fiesta blend, Monterey jack, or pepper jack.
- Corn Tortillas: Vista Hermosa brand recommended for the best crisp.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying the tortillas.
Optional Ingredients
- Pico de Gallo: For serving alongside the tacos.
- Fresh Cilantro: For garnish.
- Lime Wedges: For a tangy finish.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preparing your chicken. If you bought a whole rotisserie chicken, break it down and shred the breast and thigh meat using two forks or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. The chicken should be moist and flavorful, thanks to the slow roasting. Toss the shredded chicken with chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin to infuse it with even more flavor.
2. Make the Sweet Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This mixture will thicken your sauce later on.
In a medium-sized pot, combine the red enchilada sauce, Coke, light brown sugar, and garlic powder. Whisk everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in the cornstarch mixture, reduce the heat, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This sweet sauce is the secret ingredient that makes this chicken birria tacos recipe so unique and flavorful.
3. Crisp the Chicken
Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook it until the edges become crispy and slightly browned. This step not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor of the chicken.
4. Assemble the Tacos
In the same cast iron skillet, add a little more oil and a spoonful of the sweet sauce. Place a corn tortilla in the skillet and cook for a few seconds. Flip the tortilla and quickly add a scoop of the crispy chicken and a generous handful of shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy and golden brown. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken.
5. Serve the Chicken Birria Tacos
Serve the chicken birria tacos hot, with a side of the remaining sweet sauce or consomé for dipping. Garnish with pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. This chicken birria tacos recipe is best enjoyed immediately, while the tortillas are still crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted.
Tips for the Best Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
Choosing the Right Chicken for Birria Tacos
For this chicken birria tacos recipe, using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time while still delivering a moist and flavorful result. If you prefer, you can cook your chicken from scratch, but the convenience of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken cannot be overstated.
Perfecting the Sweet Sauce
The sweet sauce is what sets this chicken birria tacos recipe apart from other birria taco recipes. It’s important to use regular (not diet) soda for the best flavor and texture. The amount of brown sugar you use will depend on the bitterness of the enchilada sauce, so taste the sauce and adjust accordingly. Start with 1/2 cup of brown sugar and add more as needed to balance out the flavors.
Making the Tortillas Crispy
One of the key components of a great chicken birria tacos recipe is crispy tortillas. To achieve this, warm your tortillas in the microwave for a few seconds before frying them. This will make them more pliable and less likely to tear when you fold them. Cook the tortillas in a combination of oil and sauce for maximum flavor and crispiness.
Preparing Ahead
To save time, you can prepare the sweet sauce and pico de gallo a day or two in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat the sauce when you’re ready to assemble the tacos. This chicken birria tacos recipe comes together quickly once all the components are ready, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
The Perfect Sides for Chicken Birria Tacos
Pair these chicken birria tacos with classic Mexican sides like black beans, Spanish rice, or Mexican roasted zucchini. For a fresh contrast, serve the tacos with elote corn salad or a simple green salad with avocado.
Drinks to Pair with Chicken Birria Tacos
A cold Mexican beer or a margarita complements the rich, savory flavors of this chicken birria tacos recipe perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing glass of horchata or agua fresca.
Variations and Substitutes for Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
Using Different Meats
While this chicken birria tacos recipe is delicious as is, you can easily substitute the chicken with other meats. If you prefer a more traditional birria, use beef chuck roast instead. Season the beef with the same spices, brown it in a skillet, and cook it in a slow cooker with the sweet sauce for 6-8 hours. Shred the meat and proceed with the recipe as instructed.
Pork is another great option for birria tacos. Use pork shoulder or butt, and follow the same steps as you would with beef. The result will be equally flavorful and tender.
Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian twist on this chicken birria tacos recipe, replace the chicken with shredded jackfruit or mushrooms. These alternatives absorb the sauce well and provide a similar texture to pulled chicken. The sweet sauce and seasonings remain the same, ensuring that the tacos are just as flavorful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftover Chicken Birria Tacos
While these tacos are best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, keep in mind that the tortillas may lose their crispiness over time. To reheat, place the tacos in a preheated skillet for a few minutes on each side until they are warmed through and crispy again.
Storing Leftover Chicken
If you have leftover shredded chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet with a little of the sweet sauce to keep it moist and flavorful before assembling the tacos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chicken birria made of?
Chicken birria is made from shredded chicken that has been marinated in a sauce made from dried chilies, spices, and other seasonings. The chicken is slow-cooked until tender, then shredded and used as the filling for tacos.
What is the sauce made of for birria tacos?
The sauce for birria tacos, also known as consomé, is made from a blend of dried chilies, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices. In this chicken birria tacos recipe, a sweet sauce made with enchilada sauce, Coke, and brown sugar adds a unique twist to the traditional consomé.
What is birria taco broth made of?
Birria taco broth, or consomé, is made from the cooking liquid that results from slow-cooking the meat with the sauce. It absorbs the rich flavors of the chilies, spices, and meat, making it perfect for dipping the tacos.
Why are my birria tacos not getting crispy?
If your birria tacos aren’t getting crispy, there could be a few reasons. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the tortillas. Use enough oil and sauce in the pan to help the tortillas crisp up. Also, ensure that the tortillas are
warm and pliable before frying them. If they’re too cold, they might not achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Conclusion
This chicken birria tacos recipe is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together the best of Mexican cuisine. With tender, seasoned chicken, crispy tortillas, and a sweet, rich sauce, these tacos are sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special occasion, they’re guaranteed to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the incredible flavors of chicken birria tacos!