Chicken Birria Tacos

Introduction

Chicken birria tacos are taking the taco scene by storm! Birria originally referred to a Mexican stew traditionally made with goat or beef. But now the term also applies to the incredible tacos made by braising meat in a bold chile-based broth, then stuffing the meat into tortillas and crisping them in the leftover juices. The result is a finger-licking fusion of tender, flavorful meat with crispy, cheese-pulling tortillas. Keep reading to learn how to make insanely delicious chicken birria tacos at home!

History of Birria

Birria originated in the state of Jalisco, Mexico as a food for festivals and celebrations. Traditionally made with goat or mutton, beef birria emerged in the 20th century. The dish then made its way north to Tijuana, where taquerias started serving birria with tortillas for dipping in the savory juices. The crispy tacos became a local specialty.

Benefits of Chicken Birria

Chicken birria offers some stellar nutritional benefits:

• High in protein from the chicken
• Loaded with collagen from the long cook time
• Anti-inflammatory properties from spices like chili, cinnamon, cumin
• Satisfying and low carb when wrapped in lettuce instead of tortillas

Ingredients

Authentic birria relies on just a few core ingredients:

• Chicken - thighs, breasts, whole
• Guajillo chiles
• California, New Mexico or Ancho chile
• Spices like cumin, bay leaf, oregano
• Onions, garlic
• Lard or oil
• Mexican beer or chicken broth

Tacos

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Monterey jack cheese
• Onion, cilantro
• Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Broth

Toast dried chiles then simmer in broth with spices until softened. Blend until smooth. Stir in a bit of vinegar.

Braise the Chicken

Sear chicken pieces in a little oil, then add to the simmering broth. Cook for 2-3 hours until extremely tender.

Shred the Meat

When chicken is fall-apart tender, remove from broth and shred with two forks. Reserve broth.

Crisp the Tortillas

Quickly dip tortillas in the hot broth to coat. Fry in oil or lard until crispy.

Assemble Tacos

Fill the crispy tortillas with the shredded chicken. Top with onions, cilantro, and cheese. Serve with lime wedges.

Variations

Try these tasty ways to customize chicken birria tacos:

• Use different types of meat like beef, pork, lamb, turkey
• Make it vegetarian with mushrooms or jackfruit
• Add beans, rice, or potatoes to the braise
• Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas
• Mix up the cheese with Oaxaca, mozzarella, queso fresco
• Top with avocado, cabbage, radishes, salsa

Flavor Ideas

• Chipotle peppers
• Ancho chili powder
• Green chilies
• Cumin
• Orange zest
• Ground coriander

Serving Suggestions

These insanely delicious tacos can be served:

• As an appetizer for a Mexican feast
• For Taco Tuesday dinner
• For a Super Bowl or game day party
• As a unique taco bar filling
• For a Cinco de Mayo celebration

Side Dishes

Some great sides to go with the tacos include:

• Mexican rice
• Charro beans
• Street corn esquites
• Elote salad
• Guacamole and chips
• Sauteed peppers and onions

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and broth separately. Chicken keeps 4-5 days refrigerated, broth keeps 5-7 days. Reheat gently to assemble tacos.

Freezing

Freeze shredded chicken in broth up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before using.

Reheating

Crisp tortillas in hot oil or lard when ready to reheat tacos.

Common Questions

What chilies are best for birria?

Guajillo and New Mexico chilies deliver deep, earthy flavor. Ancho or California add milder sweetness.

Is birria spicy?

It can be moderately spicy depending on the types of chilies used. Mitigate heat by removing chili seeds.

Can I make birria in a slow cooker?

Yes, just cook on low for 7-8 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.

What drinks pair well with birria?

Birria pairs deliciously with Mexican drinks like horchata, jamaica (hibiscus tea), or michelada.

Can I use leftover broth for soup?

Absolutely! The flavorful broth makes an incredible base for pozole, menudo, or chicken tortilla soup.

Conclusion

With its crave-worthy combo of succulent braised meat and crispy cheese tortillas, chicken birria tacos are a revelation. Infusing chicken with complex spices, fire-roasted peppers and savory broth results in next-level tacos you’ll want to devour again and again. Birria is fit for any fiesta or fun casual dinner. Just be prepared for these tacos to disappear fast!