Mexican cuisine is known for its rich flavors, bold spices, and vibrant colors, and the birria tacos are no exception. Originating in the Mexican state of Jalisco, birria is a traditional stew made from goat or beef, slow-cooked to perfection with a blend of spices and chilies. In recent years, the dish has gained popularity in the US, with variations made using chicken, and the birria tacos have become a favorite for many.
Making chicken birria tacos at home is easier than you might think and the result is a delicious, comforting meal that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Here’s how you can make this mouth-watering dish:
Ingredients:
4 lbs boneless chicken thighs
2 medium-sized onions, diced
5 cloves of garlic, minced
1 large can of diced tomatoes
1 tbsp cumin
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
4 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil
20 corn tortillas
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, oregano, thyme, chipotle peppers, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add the chicken thighs to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
In a separate pan, heat the tortillas over medium heat, one by one, until they are warm and slightly crispy.
To assemble the tacos, place a tortilla on a plate and add a generous amount of shredded chicken to the center. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
Serve the tacos hot with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and additional toppings, such as diced onions, cilantro, salsa, and sour cream.
This recipe yields about 20 chicken birria tacos, making it the perfect dish for a large gathering or family dinner. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, melted cheese, and warm, crispy tortillas is sure to be a hit with everyone. The addition of spices and chipotle peppers gives the dish a bold and flavorful kick, while the toppings provide a fresh and tangy contrast.
Conclusion
chicken birria tacos are a delicious twist on a Mexican classic, and making them at home is simple and enjoyable. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, these tacos are sure to please. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in a taste of Mexico in your own kitchen.