Just imagine the savory aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare a batch of Chicken Birria Tacos—mouthwatering, right? When I first experimented with this dish, an unexpected burst of flavor took me by surprise, transforming a simple taco night into a culinary adventure. Braised in a rich adobo chili sauce, this recipe showcases tender chicken that melts in your mouth, all nestled within crispy tortillas that add an irresistible crunch.
What makes these tacos truly stand out is their incredible ease of preparation. In under an hour, you can whip up a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your family or guests. Plus, with the option to add gooey cheese for a quesabirria twist, you can further elevate this classic recipe to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your cooking journey, these chicken tacos are here to bring excitement back to your dining experience. So let’s dive in and create a feast that will leave everyone eager for seconds!
Why You’ll Love These Birria Chicken Tacos
Simplicity: You’ll appreciate how quick and straightforward it is to make these Chicken Birria Tacos, with minimal cooking experience needed.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender chicken with smoky adobo sauce delivers a mouthwatering taste experience that’s hard to resist.
Crispy & Cheesy: With the option to add melty cheese, you can easily transform these tacos into delicious quesabirria, taking your taco night to the next level.
Adaptable: Feel free to customize your toppings—add pico de gallo, avocado, or any of your favorites for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, these tacos will undoubtedly impress and satisfy your guests.
Make-Ahead: Prepare components in advance to save time, making it easier to serve a tasty meal even on busy days. You might also enjoy pairing them with cilantro lime rice for a delightful side.
Birria Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Bone-in Chicken Thighs – Provides moist, flavorful meat; boneless thighs can be used for quicker cooking.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the dish’s robust flavors.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing, creating that delicious golden crust on the chicken.
For the Spices
• Black Peppercorns – Offers fresh, pungent spice; can substitute with ground black pepper if needed.
• Cumin Seeds – Delivers earthy warmth; ground cumin is a suitable alternative.
• Coriander Seeds – Adds sweet, nutty flavor; ground coriander works just as well.
• Whole Cloves – Imparts warmth; ground cloves can be used in a pinch.
• Bay Leaves – Adds subtle bitterness; can be omitted if you don’t have any on hand.
• Cinnamon Stick – Introduces a warm, woody note; ground cinnamon is also an option.
For the Sauce
• Dried Guajillo Chiles – Milder heat with a sweet flavor; omit for a less complex taste.
• Dried Ancho Chiles – Provides sweet, earthy undertones; can skip if unavailable.
• Chili de Arbol – Adds heat; adjust or omit based on your spice preference.
• Yellow Onion – Essential for depth in flavor; onion powder can be used as a substitute.
• Garlic – Eight cloves bring rich flavor; garlic powder is a decent replacement.
• Vine-Ripened Tomatoes – For acidity and sweetness; Roma tomatoes or canned versions are suitable substitutes.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tang; rice vinegar is a milder alternative.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances flavor; low sodium recommended to control saltiness.
For Assembling
• Corn Tortillas – Key for authentic taste and structure; fresh or quality store-bought will do.
• Oaxaca Cheese – Melts beautifully for that cheesy touch; mozzarella can substitute effectively.
• Pico de Gallo (or Toppings) – Fresh elements to brighten up your tacos; customize with cilantro, lime juice, or your favorites.
These Birria Chicken ingredients set the stage for a delicious cooking adventure that’s bound to become a family favorite!
How to Make Birria Chicken Tacos
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Toast Spices: In a Dutch oven, toast the black peppercorns, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, whole cloves, and cinnamon stick over medium heat until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes). This step brings out their aromatic flavors, so keep an eye on them!
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Sear Chicken: Season the bone-in chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In the same pot, sear the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides (around 5-6 minutes). Remove the chicken and set it aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped yellow onion to the pot and sauté until softened (about 4 minutes). Then, stir in the minced garlic and the previously toasted spices, letting them mingle for an additional minute.
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Prepare Adobo Sauce: Add the dried guajillo and ancho chiles, along with diced tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the peppers are soft (approximately 10 minutes).
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Blend Sauce: Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. If desired, strain the sauce to achieve a silky texture. This rich adobo sauce is the heart of your tacos!
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Cook Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s well-coated with the adobo sauce. Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
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Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove bones and shred the chicken while keeping it well-coated in the sauce. The sauce will enhance the flavor and moisture of your filling.
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Prepare Tortillas: Dip corn tortillas in the adobo sauce, then pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp (about 1-2 minutes per side). This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your tacos.
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Serve: Assemble your tacos by filling each tortilla with the shredded chicken and Oaxaca cheese. Serve with pico de gallo and a warm consomé for dipping!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Birria Tacos?
Transform your taco night into a full feast with these delightful pairing ideas that ensure a blissful dining experience.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavor of cilantro lime rice adds a refreshing burst, perfectly balancing the rich, smoky flavors of the tacos.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers and zucchini bring a satisfying texture and lightness to complement the tender chicken.
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Fruity Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad filled with ripe avocado, mango, and tomatillo creates a vibrant counterpoint to the savory filling.
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Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This classic side, slathered with creamy sauce and sprinkled with cheese, adds a luscious, sweet touch to your meal.
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Spicy Pickled Onions: Their tangy bite adds brightness and heat, complementing the richness of the chicken beautifully.
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Consomé: Serve with a bowl of warm, savory consomé for dipping—a luscious broth that elevates the entire dish.
These pairings not only elevate your Chicken Birria Tacos but also create a feast that’s sure to impress family and friends!
Expert Tips for Birria Chicken Tacos
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Searing Perfection: Ensure your pot is hot enough before adding the chicken. This locks in moisture and creates a delightful, crispy skin.
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Spice Grinding: Always toast spices before grinding them. This step enhances their flavors, making your adobo sauce even more aromatic and delicious.
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Quality Tortillas: Opt for fresh corn tortillas to avoid tearing. It ensures they hold up well, delivering the perfect bite without falling apart.
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Shredding Technique: Keep your shredded chicken coated in the adobo sauce to enhance the flavor. It prevents dryness and makes it more deliciously sticky.
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Prep Ahead: Make the sauce and shred your chicken a day in advance. This not only intensifies the flavors but also streamlines your cooking on taco night.
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Glove Up: When handling dried chiles, wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation. This makes your cooking experience comfortable and enjoyable!
How to Store and Freeze Birria Chicken Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each taco in foil and place them in a freezer bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight then microwave or warm in a skillet until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains moist.
Preparation Tips: Consider preparing the adobo sauce and shredded chicken ahead of time; these components can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembly.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Birria Tacos are perfect for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the adobo sauce and shred the chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken in the sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and moisture. Additionally, you can pre-toast and grind the spices, storing them in a small jar for easy access when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your tacos, just warm the chicken mixture and dip your corn tortillas in the sauce before pan-frying them until crispy. This way, you’ll enjoy the rich flavors of your Chicken Birria Tacos with less hassle!
Variations & Substitutions for Birria Chicken Tacos
Feel free to personalize these delightful tacos with these fun swaps and twists that will keep your taste buds excited.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Oaxaca cheese with a nut-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a creamy vegan experience.
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with beef or pork for a heartier variation; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of chili de arbol for an extra spicy thrill; adjust to your heat preference.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful, plant-based version.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or oregano to the adobo sauce for an aromatic lift that complements the dish beautifully.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into your spice blend for an extra layer of depth and flavor.
- Crunch Factor: Top your tacos with crispy fried onions or tortilla strips for added texture and excitement with every bite.
- Creamy Toppings: Drizzle homemade or store-bought crema over your tacos for a delightful creaminess that harmonizes with the spiciness of the adobo sauce.
Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the chicken thighs are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken that has a pinkish hue with no dark spots. Fresh chicken should have a clean, slightly firm texture. If you’re purchasing chicken thighs, ensure they smell neutral; any off or sour odor indicates spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Birria Tacos?
I recommend placing leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. Make sure to separate the chicken filling from the tortillas if possible; this helps prevent sogginess. Heat them up before serving for the best experience!
Can I freeze Chicken Birria Tacos?
Very! To freeze, wrap each assembled taco in foil and then place them into a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet for that crispy tortilla texture.
What if my adobo sauce isn’t thick enough?
If your sauce turns out thinner than expected, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered on the stove for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce, cooking until the desired thickness is reached.
Are Chicken Birria Tacos suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can adjust the ingredients to meet dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use corn tortillas as recommended. If dairy is a concern, you can substitute Oaxaca cheese with vegan cheese or omit it altogether. Always check the spice labels for potential allergens.
What should I do if the tortilas break when frying?
Very! To prevent tearing, ensure you’re using quality, fresh corn tortillas. If they feel too stiff, warm them briefly in a dry skillet before frying; this makes them pliable and prevents breakage. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
Irresistible Birria Chicken Tacos with Cheesy Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast Spices: In a Dutch oven, toast the black peppercorns, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, whole cloves, and cinnamon stick over medium heat until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Sear Chicken: Season the bone-in chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In the same pot, sear the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown on all sides (around 5-6 minutes). Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped yellow onion to the pot and sauté until softened (about 4 minutes). Then, stir in minced garlic and the previously toasted spices, letting them mingle for an additional minute.
- Prepare Adobo Sauce: Add the dried guajillo and ancho chiles, along with diced tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the peppers are soft (approximately 10 minutes).
- Blend Sauce: Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. If desired, strain the sauce to achieve a silky texture.
- Cook Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s well-coated with the adobo sauce. Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 45 minutes.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove bones and shred the chicken while keeping it well-coated in the sauce.
- Prepare Tortillas: Dip corn tortillas in the adobo sauce, then pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp (about 1-2 minutes per side).
- Serve: Assemble your tacos by filling each tortilla with the shredded chicken and Oaxaca cheese. Serve with pico de gallo and a warm consomé for dipping!