When you think about chicken birria tacos, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Or perhaps you’re envisioning biting into a taco that oozes with cheesy goodness. Either way, these tacos are a crowd-pleaser. Pairing them, however, can take your meal to the next level. Consider serving them with Guacamole and chips, Mexican street corn, Horchata – This traditional Mexican drink cools the palate without overwhelming it.
Now that we’re all salivating, let’s dive into the fine details.
Originating from the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, these tasty treats are now winning hearts globally. Why wouldn’t they? Imagine soft corn tortillas filled with spiced shredded chicken, topped with just the right amount of cheese. Served with a homemade sweet chile sauce, these tacos are as close to magic as food gets. The beauty lies in their simplicity and the symphony of flavors that belies it.
What is an Authentic Chicken Birria Tacos?
Authentic chicken birria tacos are more than just a dish; they’re an experience. They involve slow-cooked, shredded chicken seasoned with various spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. These ingredients meld together to create a rich depth that’s both spicy and savory. Corn tortillas are filled with this marvel, often served alongside a dip or sauce made from the drippings of the broth.
Why This Recipe Works
Perfect Balance of Spices: The blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin creates a balanced flavor profile.
Easy to Prepare: Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and ensures tender meat.
Versatile: You can make it as spicy or mild as you want.
Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at gatherings, these tacos are loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
- 1 Rotisserie Chicken
- 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder
- 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Powder
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 Cup Mexican Cheese, Shredded
- 12 Corn Tortillas
- Olive Oil
For the Sweet Chile Sauce:
- 1 Ancho Chile
- 1 Chile de Arbol
- 1 cup Root Beer or Coke
- 2 1/3 Cups Light Brown Sugar
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- 1 cup Water
How To Make This Authentic Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken. You’ll need to get into the nooks and crannies, ensuring every bit of meat is utilized.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
Combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, and ground cinnamon. Rub this spice mix all over the shredded chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and the bay leaf. Cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove the bay leaf after cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Sweet Chile Sauce
Soak the ancho and de arbol chiles in hot water for about 30 minutes. Blend these chiles with root beer, brown sugar, garlic powder, cornstarch, and a cup of water. Simmer over low heat until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Fill each tortilla with the seasoned chicken and a sprinkle of shredded Mexican cheese. Serve hot alongside the sweet chile sauce.
Tips & Tricks
Warm tortillas properly: Use a hot skillet to warm the tortillas; it makes them pliable and enhances their flavor.
Finely shred chicken: This ensures every bite is filled with flavor.
Don’t rush soaking chiles: Give them time to soften for the best sauce.
Use cheese sparingly: Let the chicken and sauce be the stars.
Double-check spice levels: Adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika according to your heat preference.
Nutrition Information
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Leftover chicken birria tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet to retain their texture and flavor.
What Sides Would Complement Authentic Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe?
Refried Beans: They add a creamy, flavorful contrast to the spicy chicken.
Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango pairs wonderfully with the savory tacos.
Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, perfect for balancing the hearty tacos.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Bone-in Chicken Thighs: If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, these can be used but will take longer to cook.
Sweet Paprika: If you can’t find smoked paprika, this can be a decent replacement.
Beef Broth: This can be used instead of soda when making the sweet chile sauce for a more savory flavor.
Wheat Tortillas: If you don’t have corn tortillas, wheat tortillas work just as well.
Authentic chicken birria tacos recipe
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
- 1 Rotisserie Chicken
- 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder
- 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- ½ teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 bay leaves
- 1 Cup Mexican Cheese Shredded
- 12 Corn Tortillas
- Olive Oil
For the Sweet Chile Sauce
- 1 Ancho Chiles
- 1 Chiles de Arbol
- 1 cup Root Beer or Coke
- 2 1/3 Cups Light Brown Sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- 1 cup Water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
- Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken. You’ll need to get into the nooks and crannies, ensuring every bit of meat is utilized.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
- Combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, and ground cinnamon. Rub this spice mix all over the shredded chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and the bay leaf. Cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove the bay leaf after cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Sweet Chile Sauce
- Soak the ancho and de arbol chiles in hot water for about 30 minutes. Blend these chiles with root beer, brown sugar, garlic powder, cornstarch, and a cup of water. Simmer over low heat until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Fill each tortilla with the seasoned chicken and a sprinkle of shredded Mexican cheese. Serve hot alongside the sweet chile sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe with Another Meat?
Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with beef or pork. But it is no longer chicken birria tacos then.
How Spicy Are These Tacos?
The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust by adding more or less chili powder.
Can I Freeze the Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken filling for up to three months.
What Drinks Pair Well with These Tacos?
A cold cerveza or a margarita pairs perfectly.
Do I Need Special Equipment?
Just basic kitchen utensils and a skillet.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Ensure your tortillas and all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Chicken birria tacos are more than just a meal; they’re an occasion. With their balanced flavors and ease of preparation, they promise to become a family favorite. From pairing suggestions to tips on nailing the recipe every time, this guide has covered it all. Try this authentic recipe and see why it’s a hit. Bon appétit!
