Elote Tacos with Chipotle Chicken and Veggies

The combination of smoky chipotle chicken, charred sweet corn, and colorful veggies creates a vibrant and delicious taco filling that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy cotija cheese and fresh lime juice add a tangy twist, balancing the bold flavors.

These tacos are not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or just a craving for Mexican-inspired cuisine, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Chipotle Chicken:
  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Veggies:
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels, charred
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• For the Tacos:
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or crema Mexicana
  • Lime wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chipotle Chicken:
   In a bowl, mix the chopped chipotle in adobo sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, coating them evenly with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, and then slice into thin strips.
3. Cook the Veggies:
   In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the corn, bell pepper, and red onion. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Cook until the veggies are tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped cilantro and remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with a few slices of chipotle chicken, a generous scoop of the veggie mix, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. Drizzle with sour cream or crema Mexicana. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal per taco | Servings: 4 servings

Origin and Inspiration

Elote tacos draw inspiration from two classic elements of Mexican cuisine: elote (Mexican street corn) and the beloved taco. Elote, often served grilled and slathered with creamy sauces, cheese, and spices, is a street food staple throughout Mexico. Combining this with smoky chipotle-marinated chicken brings together the essence of traditional flavors and modern creativity.

This recipe celebrates the bold, vibrant, and comforting flavors of Mexico, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a dish that feels both hearty and indulgent. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the spice and zest of authentic Mexican food but wants something quick and easy to prepare.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

1. Marinating the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the chipotle mix. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat and makes it extra tender and flavorful.
2. Charred Corn: To achieve the best flavor, grill the corn until it’s slightly blackened. This smoky profile elevates the dish and makes it taste just like authentic elote.
3. Tortilla Tips: Warm your tortillas before serving to make them pliable and enhance the overall flavor. You can do this over an open flame, in a dry skillet, or in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.
4. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce or substitute it with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the spice.
5. Add Crunch: Include shredded cabbage or thinly sliced radishes as a topping for added crunch and freshness.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the chipotle chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms or a mix of black beans and roasted sweet potatoes.
2. Extra Toppings: Add diced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot honey for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan sour cream and skip the cotija cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.

Pairing Suggestions

These tacos pair beautifully with a refreshing margarita or a classic agua fresca, such as watermelon or tamarind. For side dishes, consider serving with:

• Mexican rice
• Refried beans
• A light cucumber and lime salad

Nutrition Facts and Benefits

This dish is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The chicken provides lean protein, while the corn and bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin C and antioxidants. Using fresh lime juice and cilantro adds a dose of natural detoxifiers to your meal, making it both flavorful and nutritious.

Cultural Background

The recipe merges two iconic staples of Mexican cuisine: elote, or Mexican street corn, and tacos. Elote is a beloved street food in Mexico, traditionally served grilled on the cob and slathered with a rich combination of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled cotija cheese. Tacos, on the other hand, are a cornerstone of Mexican culinary tradition, providing endless opportunities for creative fillings. By incorporating the smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors of elote with the protein-rich goodness of chipotle-marinated chicken, this recipe delivers a bold fusion of classic and contemporary Mexican tastes.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

1. Authenticity with a Twist: The use of charred corn captures the authentic flavor of Mexican street corn while combining it with the familiar comfort of tacos. Chipotle chicken adds a smoky, spicy flair that complements the sweetness of the corn and the creamy cotija cheese.
2. Quick and Easy: Despite its complex flavor profile, this recipe is incredibly simple to make, with a total time of just 40 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when hosting a casual taco night with friends.
3. Customizable: The recipe is highly versatile. You can tailor the spice level, toppings, and even the protein to suit your preferences.

Tips for Success

• Perfectly Marinated Chicken: The longer you marinate the chicken in the chipotle sauce, the more flavorful it becomes. A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating overnight yields the best results.
• Achieving Charred Corn: Use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan to char the corn evenly. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn can be used—just make sure to thaw it beforehand and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
• Layering Flavors: To balance the heat from the chipotle, the creamy cotija cheese and sour cream provide a cooling contrast. Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos right before serving brightens the overall flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: This ingredient is key to achieving the smoky heat in the dish. It’s made from dried, smoked jalapeños in a tangy tomato-based sauce. Look for it in the Hispanic foods section of your grocery store.
• Cotija Cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese with a slightly salty, tangy taste. It’s similar to feta and adds a creamy texture to the tacos.
• Corn Tortillas: Opt for small, soft corn tortillas for a more traditional flavor. They can be lightly toasted or warmed before assembling.

Serving Ideas

Pair these tacos with some traditional Mexican sides for a complete meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites): A deconstructed version of elote that complements the tacos perfectly.
• Guacamole and Chips: A creamy and crunchy starter.
• Cilantro-Lime Rice: A refreshing, zesty side that balances the spice.

For drinks, consider serving:

• A chilled Horchata or Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus tea).
• A classic Margarita or a non-alcoholic lime spritzer.

Health Benefits

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious too:

• High Protein Content: The chicken provides a lean protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamins: The veggies, particularly the corn, bell peppers, and cilantro, offer a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K.
• Low in Processed Ingredients: The recipe focuses on fresh, whole ingredients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms, black beans, or roasted sweet potatoes for a meatless version.
2. Cheese Substitute: Use a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to make the dish dairy-free.
3. Tortilla Swap: If you prefer a lower-carb option, serve the filling in lettuce wraps or use whole-wheat tortillas.

Behind the Dish

This recipe reflects the vibrancy of Mexican cuisine, bringing together the smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors that make it so beloved around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and flavor-packed results.