1 Shares

Fried Chicken Tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The crispy fried chicken pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings like avocado, lettuce, and crumbled queso, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply looking for a tasty dinner, these tacos are easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone coming back for more!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Tacos:

8 small corn or flour tortillas
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges
Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces to the mixture and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for better flavor.
Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
Fry the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the fridge and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to create a crust. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of the flour mixture—if it sizzles, the oil is ready. Fry the chicken in batches for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels.
Prepare the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. Place the fried chicken in the center of each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, queso fresco or feta, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze lime over the tacos and add hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrients

Calories: 468 kcal
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 89mg
Sodium: 670mg
Potassium: 670mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 31g
Vitamin A: 340IU
Vitamin C: 15mg
Calcium: 100mg
Iron: 3.6mg

The Versatility of Fried Chicken in Tacos

Fried chicken is a popular dish that never goes out of style. Its crisp, flavorful exterior and tender interior make it an ideal choice for pairing with a wide range of ingredients. When incorporated into tacos, fried chicken takes on a whole new level of excitement. The crunchy coating and juicy chicken provide a satisfying bite that pairs perfectly with the fresh toppings typically found in tacos. The balance between the crispy chicken and the cool, creamy toppings like avocado and queso creates a harmonious flavor profile that will make these tacos a favorite in your recipe collection.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of the show. Chicken thighs are often preferred over chicken breasts for their tender texture and juiciness. While chicken breasts can sometimes become dry when fried, thighs retain their moisture, making them ideal for this dish. Additionally, thighs have a richer flavor that complements the crispy coating and seasonings. It’s important to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure that each piece gets evenly coated in the flour mixture and cooks thoroughly, ensuring a uniform crunch in every bite.

The Role of Buttermilk in Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is an essential step in this recipe. Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. The acidity in buttermilk breaks down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a more tender texture. The slight tang of buttermilk also complements the seasonings, infusing the chicken with flavor. If you want to add a little extra heat, you can include hot sauce in the marinade, which will subtly enhance the chicken’s flavor profile without overpowering it.

The Perfect Coating for Fried Chicken

The coating for the fried chicken is what truly makes it stand out. A simple mix of all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper creates a perfectly seasoned crust that adds depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch. The paprika brings a smoky, slightly sweet taste to the coating, while the garlic and onion powders add savory notes that complement the chicken. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, cayenne pepper is optional, allowing you to customize the level of heat according to your taste. When dredging the marinated chicken in this flour mixture, be sure to press the flour into the chicken to form a thick, even crust that will fry up crispy and golden brown.

Frying the Chicken to Perfection

Frying the chicken to the perfect level of crispiness is key to achieving that ideal fried chicken taco. The oil should be heated to medium-high heat, which allows the chicken to cook through while developing a golden, crunchy exterior. When frying the chicken, it’s important to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy chicken instead of a crispy coating. Fry the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Assembling the Tacos

Assembling the tacos is the fun part where all the flavors come together. Start by warming the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side to ensure they are soft and pliable. Corn tortillas work wonderfully for their authentic flavor, but flour tortillas can also be used for a softer bite. Once the tortillas are warm, place a generous amount of the crispy fried chicken in the center of each tortilla. Next, top the chicken with shredded lettuce for crunch, diced tomatoes for freshness, and creamy avocado slices for richness. Crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese adds a tangy flavor and a touch of creaminess to balance out the heat from the fried chicken. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, while a squeeze of lime adds the perfect amount of brightness to tie everything together.

Customization and Additional Toppings

One of the best things about Fried Chicken Tacos is the ability to customize them to suit your personal preferences. Feel free to add your favorite toppings to the tacos. For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. For a touch of sweetness, try adding a spoonful of mango salsa or pineapple chunks. If you enjoy more crunch, a handful of pickled red onions or shredded cabbage can provide additional texture and flavor. The versatility of these tacos means you can adapt them to fit any flavor profile you desire.

The Appeal of Fried Chicken Tacos for Any Occasion

Fried Chicken Tacos are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or looking to spice up Taco Tuesday, these tacos will be a hit with everyone. The crispy chicken, combined with fresh toppings, creates a balance of flavors that is both comforting and exciting. The ease of preparation, paired with the versatility of the dish, makes it a great choice for feeding a crowd or enjoying a quick meal at home. These tacos are an excellent way to bring a new twist to the traditional taco without sacrificing the deliciousness that everyone loves.

Health Considerations

While Fried Chicken Tacos are undeniably delicious, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their higher fat content, primarily from the fried chicken and toppings like avocado and cheese. However, the tacos are packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado, which can be beneficial when incorporated into a balanced diet. If you’re looking to reduce the calorie or fat content, you can opt for baked chicken instead of fried chicken or use a lighter cheese like reduced-fat feta. Additionally, you can substitute flour tortillas with whole-grain tortillas or lettuce wraps for a healthier, low-carb version.

Conclusion

Fried Chicken Tacos are a flavorful, fun, and satisfying dish that brings a new twist to traditional tacos. With their crispy fried chicken, fresh toppings, and customizable elements, these tacos offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a get-together, meal prepping for the week, or craving something indulgent, Fried Chicken Tacos are sure to please. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy toppings, and warm tortillas makes each bite a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for more. Try making these tacos for your next meal, and enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and fresh in every bite!

Pin1