1.5poundsboneless, skinless chicken thighscut into 1-inch pieces
1cupall-purpose flour
0.5cupcornstarch
2teaspoonspaprika
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoononion powder
0.5teaspooncayenne pepper(optional)
1teaspoonsalt
0.5teaspoonblack pepper
2largeeggs
0.25cupmilk
3cupsvegetable oilfor frying
For the Street Corn
2cupsfrozen cornthawed
2tablespoonsbutter
0.5cupmayonnaise
0.25cupcotija cheesecrumbled
2tablespoonsfresh cilantrochopped
1limejuiced
0.5teaspoonchili powder
For the Tacos
8smallcorn tortillas
lime wedgesfor serving
extra cilantrofor garnish
sour cream or crema(optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Fried Chicken
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Place the coated chicken on a plate.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain.
Make the Street Corn
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Tacos
Warm the corn tortillas according to package directions (e.g., in a dry skillet, microwave, or directly over a low gas flame).
Fill each warm tortilla with a generous portion of fried chicken and the street corn mixture.
Garnish with extra cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream or crema, if desired.
Serve immediately.
Notes
These tacos are best enjoyed fresh. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the street corn mixture.