Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe

The aroma of slow-cooked chicken wafts through the air like an invitation to a fiesta. Picture this: you bite into a warm tortilla filled with savory chicken, bursting with spices and flavors that dance on your palate. Chicken birria tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience that makes every bite worth celebrating.

I remember the first time I tried making these tacos at home. My kitchen morphed into a mini-Mexican restaurant, and the anticipation of serving my friends made my heart race as they eagerly awaited their first taste.

One memorable evening, I served these tacos at a family gathering, and the enthusiastic cheers from everyone made me feel like a culinary rockstar.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their richer flavor and tenderness compared to breasts.
• Yellow Onion: A must-have for adding sweetness; choose firm onions for the best results.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the dish’s aroma; opt for large cloves.
• Dried Guajillo Chiles: These chiles provide depth and warmth; soak them beforehand for easier blending.
• Cumin Powder: This spice adds earthiness; always use ground cumin for optimal flavor.
• Bay Leaves: They infuse subtle herbal notes during cooking; don’t forget to remove them before serving.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up each taco; chop it finely for distribution in each bite.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice elevates the taste; don’t skip this zesty addition!
• Tortillas (Corn or Flour): Either works well; choose based on personal preference or dietary needs.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

To embark on this culinary adventure, follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Chiles: Start by removing stems and seeds from guajillo chiles. Soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes until soft.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant.

Create the Sauce: In a blender, combine soaked chiles, sautéed onions, garlic cloves, cumin powder, and some chicken broth. Blend until smooth.

Cook the Chicken: In a pot over medium heat, place boneless chicken thighs and pour your sauce over them. Add bay leaves and remaining broth.

Simmer Away!: Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 1 hour until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with forks.

Taco Assembly Time!: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Serve it on warmed tortillas topped with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Now you’re ready to dive into a plateful of deliciousness! Each bite will transport you straight to taco paradise.

Enjoy your homemade chicken birria tacos at backyard parties or cozy family dinners—any occasion becomes special when these tasty treats are involved!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in its flavors and juices. While that sizzles, prepare your tortillas and toppings for an efficient assembly line that keeps everything warm.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spices or add ingredients like avocados or pickled onions. Mixing it up can turn these chicken birria tacos into your unique masterpiece that reflects your tastes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven to keep them crispy.

Sharing these chicken birria tacos with friends always sparks joy; their smiles as they devour them make all my kitchen efforts worthwhile.

FAQ

What can I serve with chicken birria tacos?

Pair them with rice, beans, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can try beef or lamb if you prefer different flavors and textures.

How do I make the broth for dipping?

Simmer leftover marinade with water for a savory dipping broth that enhances every bite.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Irresistible Chicken Birria Tacos

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x

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Description

Savor the delightful taste of chicken birria tacos, featuring tender chicken simmered with aromatic spices and served in warm tortillas. Perfect for any gathering or cozy meal at home!

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Ingredients

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• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 8 corn or flour tortillas

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Instructions

1. Soak the guajillo chiles in hot water for about 15 minutes until soft.
2. In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
3. Blend the soaked chiles, sautéed onions, minced garlic, cumin powder, and half of the chicken broth until smooth.
4. In a pot over medium heat, combine the chicken thighs with the blended sauce, bay leaves, and remaining broth. Simmer on low for about 1 hour until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and serve on warmed tortillas topped with cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the sauce before cooking.
•  Customize your tacos with toppings like avocado or pickled onions for extra flair.
•  Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in foil to maintain crispiness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg