If you’re searching for a dish that combines crunch, zest, and vibrant freshness all wrapped in a warm tortilla, then this Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a perfect blend of tender, buttermilk-marinated chicken fried to golden crispiness, paired with a tangy, colorful slaw that adds a refreshing bite. Every bite is packed with flavor and textures that will have you reaching for seconds without hesitation. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or an exciting gathering with friends, this Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe delivers crowd-pleasing results that feel like a special treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe are simple staples, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the perfectly seasoned flour that creates the ultimate crispy coating to the fresh vegetables that bring brightness and crunch, these ingredients come together seamlessly to elevate the dish.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into strips to ensure even cooking and crispy coating coverage.
- Buttermilk: Acts as a tenderizing marinade that adds flavor and helps the breading stick beautifully.
- All-purpose flour: The base for the seasoned breading that crisps up the chicken deliciously.
- Paprika: Adds warmth and subtle smokiness to the coating mix.
- Garlic powder: Delivers savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes and pairs perfectly with the garlic.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that balance the flavors in the coating and slaw dressing.
- Vegetable oil: Used for frying to get that golden, irresistibly crispy finish.
- Flour tortillas: Soft and warm carriers that complement the crispy chicken without competing.
- Shredded green cabbage: Adds crunch and freshness to the slaw.
- Corn kernels: Bring a gentle sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
- Red onion: Gives a hint of sharpness that livens up the slaw.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds an herbal brightness and a touch of green freshness.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the slaw dressing.
- Apple cider vinegar: Provides tang that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
- Lime juice: Enhances the brightness and adds a citrusy zing.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity in the dressing perfectly.
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is the secret to tenderizing the meat and infusing it with subtle tang that will shine through once fried. The buttermilk also helps the seasoned flour cling better, ensuring maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
Mix the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. The seasoning blend transforms the flour into a flavorful crisp coating that wraps the chicken beautifully during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Dredge each marinated chicken strip in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking until each piece is golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Drain on paper towels to keep them crunchy and remove excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Slaw
Combine shredded cabbage, corn kernels, red onion, and fresh cilantro in a mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper to create a vibrant, tangy dressing. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is well coated, adding layers of fresh flavor and texture to the tacos.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm the flour tortillas so they’re soft and pliable. Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of crispy fried chicken and top with the colorful slaw. This step brings all the elements together, creating a mouthwatering bite of crispy, creamy, and tangy goodness.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like extra chopped cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime, or even sliced jalapeños gives your tacos a personalized touch that makes each bite pop with freshness and a little bit of heat if you desire. These simple additions can elevate the presentation and flavor in an effortless way.
Side Dishes
To complement your Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe, consider sides like Mexican street corn, black bean salad, or a fresh guacamole with tortilla chips. These pairings echo the vibrant flavors of the tacos and create a satisfying and colorful Mexican-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the taco shell by presenting these crispy fried chicken strips as a taco salad in a crispy tortilla bowl or stacking them up as mini sliders with the slaw nestled inside soft buns. Either way, the versatility of this recipe invites creativity while maintaining its irresistible flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover crispy fried chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days while retaining most of its crunch, and the slaw keeps its refreshing bite when stored properly.
Freezing
Freeze leftover cooked chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep the slaw fresh by making it just before serving, as freezing will affect its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that crunch. Serve immediately with fresh or refrigerated slaw for an enjoyable meal anytime.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe, offering a juicier and slightly more flavorful option. Just be sure to cut them into uniform strips for even cooking.
Is buttermilk necessary for marinating the chicken?
While buttermilk is highly recommended for its tenderizing qualities and tangy flavor, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or a milk and lemon juice mixture in a pinch. The key is to allow enough marinating time for tenderness and taste.
Can I make the slaw vegan?
Yes! Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo or a creamy avocado dressing to keep the slaw creamy and delicious while making it suitable for a vegan diet. The rest of the slaw ingredients are naturally plant-based.
What oil is best for frying chicken?
Vegetable oil is a great all-around choice because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but you can also use canola or peanut oil for frying. Just make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
How can I make the tacos less messy to eat?
Warming the tortillas until they’re soft and pliable helps prevent cracking and spillage. Also, avoid overfilling the tacos and use garnishes that aren’t too watery. Serving with napkins and a plate with a rim can also save the day.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe is a celebration of textures and flavors that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. From the crispy, golden chicken to the bright, tangy slaw, every bite is a joy. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it a staple in your cooking routine—it’s bound to bring smiles and satisfied appetites every time!
Print
Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Enjoy these Crispy Fried Chicken Tacos featuring tender buttermilk-marinated chicken strips fried to golden perfection, served in warm flour tortillas and topped with a fresh, tangy cabbage and corn slaw. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful 45-minute meal that serves 8.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Tortillas and Slaw
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken strips in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Stir to coat well and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even seasoning for the coating.
- Fry Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Remove the marinated chicken from buttermilk, dredge each strip in the seasoned flour to coat completely, and carefully fry the chicken in batches. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make Slaw: In a bowl, toss together shredded cabbage, corn kernels, red onion, and chopped cilantro. In another bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss well to combine.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Fill each tortilla with several pieces of crispy fried chicken and top with a generous amount of the prepared slaw. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight in buttermilk can enhance tenderness and flavor further.
- Adjust seasoning in the slaw dressing to your taste, adding more lime juice or sugar if desired.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for perfect frying results.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or hot sauce to the slaw dressing.
- Leftover fried chicken can be reheated in a toaster oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
