Chef Mitchell preparing Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the love for these Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos during a family gathering where everyone brought their favorite dish. I experimented with the ingredients and struck the perfect balance of flavors. Over the years, I’ve perfected the recipe, making it a staple in our home. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and I hope it does the same for you!"

With over a decade of experience in Mexican cuisine, I have a passion for creating authentic dishes that are full of flavor. I specialize in easy dinner recipes that can be made quickly without sacrificing taste. My love for cooking comes from my heritage, and I strive to share that joy with others.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos served on a plate

Why This Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it balances the rich flavors of cheese and chicken with the sweetness of corn, creating a delightful harmony. The addition of fresh toppings adds a burst of brightness, making each bite delicious. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s perfect for families and gatherings alike.

The technique of using taco seasoning on the chicken infuses it with flavor while cooking it to a perfect tenderness. Melting the cheese directly into the chicken and corn mixture ensures every bite is creamy and satisfying. The crispy taco shells provide the ideal contrast in texture.

💡 Professional Tip

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and taco seasoning for a few hours before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat and enhances the overall taste of the tacos. Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and corn mixture ahead of time. Simply reheat it when you're ready to assemble the tacos. Store the mixture in the fridge for up to two days. However, it's best to warm the taco shells fresh for the best texture.

If you don't have taco seasoning, you can create your own using a mixture of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the amounts to your taste for a customized flavor. Additionally, store-bought spice blends can be used as a quick alternative.

The chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the corn should be heated through. The taco shells should be crispy when served.

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and corn mixture for up to three months. However, it's best to freeze the mixture before assembling the tacos. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid freezing the taco shells, as they can become soggy upon thawing.

These tacos pair perfectly with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with tortilla chips and salsa for a delicious appetizer. For drinks, margaritas or fresh lemonade complement the flavors beautifully.

Stored properly in an airtight container, the chicken corn mixture can last up to three days in the refrigerator. However, it's best to consume the tacos within 2 days to enjoy them at their best quality.

You can prepare the filling in advance but assemble the tacos right before serving for the best texture. If you assemble them ahead of time, the shells may become soggy. Keep the filling and toppings separate until you are ready to serve.

To reheat, place the filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For taco shells, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shells chewy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The taco filling may come out dry if not enough moisture is added.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure to use enough cheese or add a splash of chicken broth or water while cooking. This will help to maintain moisture in the filling.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Taco shells might not be crispy if they are not heated adequately.

Solution: Make sure to bake or warm the taco shells in the oven before filling them. Alternatively, frying them lightly in oil can make them crispy.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Chicken may become tough and dry if overcooked.

Prevention: Always keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C) for juicy chicken.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Sometimes chicken may remain undercooked in the center.

Recovery: If you suspect the chicken is undercooked, return it to the skillet and cook for a few more minutes. Cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it's no longer pink.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the tacos can burn if cooked at too high a temperature.

Prevention: Always monitor your cooking temperature and adjust it if necessary. Cooking on medium heat ensures that the taco filling heats evenly without burning the shell.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the tacos are too sweet, add a squeeze of lime juice for acidity.

Too Salty: If the tacos are too salty, add a little sugar to balance the flavor.

Bland: To fix bland tacos, consider adding more spices or fresh herbs for an extra punch of flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos

Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos

The key ingredients for these tacos include tender chicken, sweet corn, and melty cheese. Each component plays a significant role in creating a balance of flavors and textures. Fresh toppings like tomatoes and cilantro add brightness to every bite, enhancing the overall taste.

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for the best flavor. Fresh chicken, real cheese, and ripe vegetables will elevate your dish to new heights. Avoid pre-packaged items whenever possible to ensure your tacos are as delicious as they can be.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture. Marinating the chicken for a few hours before cooking can add depth to the flavor. Always choose organic or free-range chicken for higher quality.
  • Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch that elevates the dish. If using canned corn, be sure to drain it well. Frozen corn is also a great alternative and retains its sweetness when cooked.
  • Cheese: Using a blend of cheeses, like cheddar and Monterey Jack, provides a great flavor combination. Choose freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and creaminess.
Cooking process for Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process starts with sautéing the chicken, allowing the flavors to develop from seasoning. Mixing in corn and cheese creates a rich filling that is satisfying and delicious. It's all about layering flavors throughout the cooking.

To achieve perfect results, ensure that the chicken is cut into even pieces for uniform cooking. Keep the heat medium to avoid burning, and don’t rush the melting of the cheese. Quality ingredients and proper techniques lead to the best Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos.

Key Technique for Perfect Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos

The most important technique lies in the seasoning of the chicken. Using taco seasoning enhances its flavor profile significantly. Additionally, letting the cheese melt thoroughly into the mixture ensures that every bite is flavorful and rich.

Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup salsa
    For added flavor
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
    Softened
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup corn
    Canned or frozen
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
    Cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • 1 cup sour cream
    For topping
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
    For seasoning
  • 12 taco shells
    For serving
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
    For topping
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
    For topping
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
    For garnish
  • 1 jalapeño
    Sliced, optional
  • 1 avocado
    Sliced
  • 1 lime
    Cut into wedges
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste
  • Olive oil
    For cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned.

  2. Add Corn and Cheese

    Stir in corn and half of the cheese into the skillet with the chicken. Cook until cheese is melted.

  3. Warm Taco Shells

    Heat taco shells according to package instructions.

  4. Assemble Tacos

    Fill each taco shell with the cheesy chicken corn mixture.

  5. Add Toppings

    Top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and avocado.

  6. Serve

    Serve tacos with lime wedges on the side.

  7. Enjoy

    Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos with your family!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain freshness, separate the taco filling from the shells until ready to eat. Reheat the filling on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Chicken Corn Tacos can be served with various sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. You can also add extra toppings such as guacamole or additional salsa for more flavor.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding black beans, bell peppers, or different types of cheese. You can make it spicier by adding more jalapeños or using spicy taco seasoning. For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu.