Birria tacos have taken the food world by storm, and now chicken birria tacos recipes are making their way into kitchens everywhere. These tacos combine the bold, smoky flavors of traditional birria with tender shredded chicken, crispy tortillas, and melty cheese. Dunked in rich, spicy consomé, every bite is an explosion of flavor.
This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from choosing the right ingredients to cooking and assembling the perfect tacos. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this dish for the first time, we’ve got you covered with simple, easy-to-follow instructions and tips.
Let’s dive in and discover how to make the ultimate chicken birria tacos recipes that will impress family, friends, and even yourself!
Part 1: Introduction to Chicken Birria Tacos
What Are Chicken Birria Tacos?
Chicken birria tacos recipes take inspiration from the traditional Mexican birria dish, which dates back to the 16th century. Originally made with goat or beef, birria features meat slow-cooked in a rich adobo sauce made from dried chilies, tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic spices. The meat is then shredded and served with consomé (a flavorful broth) for dipping.
In this modern take, chicken replaces the traditional meats, offering a quicker, leaner, and equally delicious option. The chicken is braised until tender in the signature adobo sauce, creating juicy, flavorful meat perfect for tacos.
What sets these tacos apart is their preparation:
- Corn tortillas are dipped in the adobo sauce before frying, giving them a crispy, golden-brown texture.
- The tacos are stuffed with tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and topped with fresh ingredients like cilantro, onion, and lime.
- They’re served with the leftover consomé for dipping, adding another layer of rich, smoky goodness to each bite.
The Rise in Popularity of Birria Tacos
If you’ve spent any time on social media, you’ve probably seen videos of birria tacos being dunked into deep crimson broth. Birria tacos have become a worldwide food trend, and for good reason—they’re packed with bold flavors, easy to customize, and irresistible to look at.
The chicken birria tacos recipes take this viral trend and make it more accessible. Using chicken instead of beef significantly cuts down cooking time while maintaining all the incredible flavors birria is known for.
Food trucks, restaurants, and home cooks everywhere have embraced birria tacos. The combination of crispy tortillas, cheesy fillings, and spicy dipping broth has turned this once-regional dish into a global favorite. Now, you can bring the birria boom into your own kitchen!
Part 2: Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Birria Tacos
When it comes to creating flavorful chicken birria tacos recipes, the secret lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the rich adobo sauce to the tender shredded chicken, every element comes together to create an unforgettable dish. Here’s everything you’ll need for the perfect tacos.
Key Ingredients for Birria Consomé (Adobo Sauce)
The adobo sauce is the heart of chicken birria tacos recipes. This bold, smoky blend infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor while doubling as a dipping consomé. Here are the essentials:
- Dried Chilies:
- Guajillo Chilies – Mild with a hint of sweetness.
- Ancho Chilies – Smoky and slightly sweet.
- Arbol Chilies – Adds a spicy kick. Use sparingly if you prefer mild heat.
- Tomatoes and Aromatics:
- Fresh or canned tomatoes provide a rich base.
- Garlic cloves and onions bring depth to the sauce.
- Spices:
- Ground cumin, Mexican oregano, cinnamon, and a pinch of cloves give the sauce its distinct birria flavor.
- Broth and Vinegar:
- Chicken broth creates a savory base for braising the chicken.
- A splash of vinegar balances the rich, smoky flavors with a touch of tang.
Essential Components for the Tacos
Once the adobo sauce is ready, these key ingredients bring the tacos to life:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts:
- Thighs are ideal for chicken birria tacos recipes because they stay juicy and tender during braising. However, chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
- Corn Tortillas:
- Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for birria tacos. They hold up well when dipped in the adobo sauce and fried.
- Oaxaca Cheese:
- This mild, melty cheese is perfect for birria tacos. If unavailable, use mozzarella or Monterey Jack as substitutes.
- Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped white onions, and lime wedges add brightness and freshness to balance the rich flavors.
- Optional Garnishes:
- Radishes, avocado slices, or a drizzle of crema can elevate the tacos even further.
With these ingredients in hand, you’ll have everything you need to create restaurant-quality chicken birria tacos recipes right at home.
Part 3: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Birria Tacos
Now that you’ve gathered the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. From preparing the adobo sauce to shredding the chicken, these step-by-step instructions will ensure your chicken birria tacos recipes turn out perfect every time.
Preparing the Adobo Sauce
The adobo sauce is where all the magic begins. It’s rich, smoky, and full of bold flavors. Here’s how to make it:
- Toast the Dried Chilies:
- Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo, ancho, and arbol chilies.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Toast the chilies for 30 seconds per side until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Rehydrate the Chilies:
- Place the toasted chilies in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes until soft.
- Blend the Sauce:
- In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, tomatoes, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and a pinch of cloves.
- Add 1-2 cups of chicken broth and a splash of vinegar. Blend until smooth.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour the blended sauce through a strainer into a pot to remove any chunks. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Cooking the Chicken and Shredding It
Now that your adobo sauce is ready, it’s time to cook the chicken:
- Braise the Chicken:
- Place chicken thighs or breasts in a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour the adobo sauce over the chicken until fully submerged.
- Simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. Alternatively, you can use an Instant Pot for faster cooking.
- Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot and mix it with the adobo sauce to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Prepare the Consomé:
- Reserve the remaining sauce in the pot as your dipping consomé. If needed, thin it with a bit of chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency.
With tender, flavorful chicken ready to go, you’re just one step away from assembling and frying the tacos. Your chicken birria tacos recipes are coming together beautifully!
Part 4: Assembling and Frying Chicken Birria Tacos
Once the chicken is tender and the adobo sauce is perfectly rich, it’s time to assemble the tacos. This is where everything comes together—the crispy tortillas, melty cheese, and juicy chicken create the ultimate flavor-packed bite. Let’s break it down step by step.
Dipping and Frying the Tortillas
To achieve that signature crispy texture, you’ll dip and fry the tortillas in the flavorful adobo sauce:
- Heat the Adobo Sauce:
- Warm up the reserved adobo sauce (or consomé) in a shallow skillet or pan. It should be hot but not boiling.
- Dip the Tortillas:
- One at a time, lightly dip the corn tortillas into the warm adobo sauce. Coat both sides evenly but don’t let them soak—too much sauce can make the tortillas soggy.
- Pan-Fry the Tortillas:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the dipped tortilla in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until the tortilla becomes crispy but pliable.
Filling the Tacos with Chicken and Cheese
The magic happens when you fill and fold the tacos:
- Add the Chicken and Cheese:
- While the tortilla is frying, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella) on one side of the tortilla.
- Top the cheese with a scoop of shredded chicken that has been braised in the adobo sauce.
- Fold and Crisp the Tacos:
- Fold the tortilla in half over the filling to form a taco. Press gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and bind the taco together.
- Fry the taco for an additional 1-2 minutes per side until the tortilla is golden-brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat and Serve:
- Continue frying the remaining tortillas and filling them with chicken and cheese. Place the finished tacos on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
With the tacos ready to go, you’re almost set for the final step—serving them with the warm, flavorful consomé.
For more delicious recipes like these, check out our Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe for a complete guide to perfect birria tacos.
Part 5: Variations and Customizations for Chicken Birria Tacos
The beauty of chicken birria tacos recipes lies in their versatility. You can easily customize the flavors, fillings, and toppings to suit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add heat, explore alternative fillings, or switch up the cheese, here are some ideas to inspire you.
Spicy and Mild Options
Adjusting the spice level of the adobo sauce is a simple way to cater to different tastes:
- For Spicy Lovers:
- Add extra arbol chilies or a splash of hot sauce while blending the adobo sauce. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes also works well for a spicy kick.
- For Mild Flavor:
- Reduce or omit the arbol chilies and focus on the sweetness of guajillo and ancho chilies. Adding a teaspoon of brown sugar can help mellow out any lingering heat.
- For Smokiness:
- Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a rich, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Alternative Fillings and Cheese Options
If you want to mix things up, try these variations to make the tacos your own:
- Alternative Proteins:
- Swap out the chicken for shredded beef, pork, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian option. The adobo sauce works well with all these choices.
- Cheese Variations:
- While Oaxaca cheese is traditional, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Cotija cheese can also be sprinkled on top for a salty, crumbly finish.
- Additional Toppings:
- Elevate your chicken birria tacos recipes with avocado slices, radish rounds, or a drizzle of Mexican crema. Fresh salsa or pickled onions add a tangy contrast to the rich tacos.
With these customizations, you can tailor chicken birria tacos recipes to suit any occasion or palate. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
Part 6: Tips for Serving Chicken Birria Tacos
Now that your tacos are crispy, golden, and filled with juicy shredded chicken, it’s time to serve them up! The key to a perfect presentation and flavor experience lies in pairing these tacos with the right sides and serving them with style.
Pairing with the Best Sides and Dips
Pairing your chicken birria tacos recipes with complementary sides and dips can turn this dish into a full feast. Here are some great options:
- Consomé for Dipping:
- The leftover adobo sauce doubles as a rich, smoky consomé. Serve it in small bowls alongside the tacos for dipping. To enhance the broth, add a squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
- Mexican Rice:
- A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs perfectly with the tacos. Its mild, savory flavor balances the richness of the adobo sauce.
- Refried Beans:
- Creamy refried beans make a great side dish, adding heartiness to the meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn):
- Grilled corn topped with mayo, chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese is a perfect match for birria tacos. The creamy, tangy flavors complement the smokiness of the tacos.
- Fresh Salsa and Guacamole:
- Serve your chicken birria tacos with fresh pico de gallo, salsa verde, or creamy guacamole for a burst of freshness and texture.
These sides bring variety to the meal and allow guests to enjoy tacos with their own unique twist.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Tacos
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, follow these tips to keep your tacos fresh and crispy:
- Storing Leftover Tacos:
- Place any leftover tacos in an airtight container. To prevent them from becoming soggy, store the consomé separately. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Tacos:
- For the crispiest results, reheat the tacos in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re hot and crispy.
- You can also use an air fryer. Reheat at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
- Reviving the Consomé:
- Warm the reserved adobo sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
With these tips, your chicken birria tacos recipes will taste just as delicious as they did when freshly made!
Part 7: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about chicken birria tacos recipes. Whether you’re a first-time cook or a taco pro, these tips will help you perfect your dish.
What Makes Birria Tacos Different from Regular Tacos?
Birria tacos stand out because of their rich, flavorful adobo sauce and unique preparation. The tortillas are dipped in the sauce before frying, giving them a crispy texture and bold flavor. Unlike regular tacos, birria tacos are often served with consomé—a savory broth—for dipping, making every bite juicy and satisfying.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot to Cook the Chicken?
Absolutely! Using a slow cooker or Instant Pot can make chicken birria tacos recipes even easier.
- Slow Cooker:
- Place the chicken and adobo sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
- Instant Pot:
- Add the chicken and adobo sauce to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes, then allow for a natural release.
Both methods result in tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort.
How Do I Make the Consomé Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, here’s how you can adjust the adobo sauce:
- Reduce Spicy Chilies:
- Use fewer arbol chilies or omit them altogether. Stick to milder chilies like guajillo and ancho for a balanced flavor.
- Add Sweetness:
- A teaspoon of brown sugar or honey can help tone down the heat.
- Balance with Broth:
- Add more chicken broth to the sauce to dilute the spice level while keeping the flavors intact.
By making these adjustments, you’ll have a milder version of the consomé that everyone can enjoy.