If you’re looking for a bold, flavor-loaded recipe that screams summer, Street Corn Chicken Tacos are your answer. These tacos combine the zesty warmth of grilled chicken thighs seasoned with a homemade sazon spice mix, the sweetness of charred corn, the creaminess of cashew lime sauce, and a punchy jalapeño-laced salsa. Whether you’re firing up the grill for Taco Tuesday or hosting a backyard fiesta, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Street Corn Chicken Tacos aren’t just another taco—they’re a celebration of smoky, spicy, and savory Mexican flavors brought together in every bite. In this post, we’ll break down each component—from ingredients to grilling tips—so you can recreate this irresistible meal step-by-step at home. Don’t miss our detailed nutritional info, serving suggestions, and clever variations, either.
Looking for inspiration? Try this Smash Burger Taco Homemade Recipe for another creative taco twist.

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Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Q: Are Mexican street tacos corn or flour tortillas?

Traditionally, Mexican street tacos use corn tortillas , not flour. Corn tortillas are more authentic and offer a firmer texture that holds fillings better—especially juicy meats like grilled chicken or al pastor. In recipes like Street Corn Chicken Tacos, soft corn tortillas add a slightly charred, smoky flavor when warmed or grilled, perfectly complementing the spiced chicken and creamy toppings. Want to switch it up? You can use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer bite or need something more flexible, but corn keeps it classic and gluten-free.

Q: How are street tacos different from regular tacos?

Street tacos are usually smaller in size and use minimal toppings , focusing on bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Unlike regular tacos, which often include cheese, lettuce, and sour cream, street tacos highlight essentials like grilled meat, diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a simple squeeze of lime. Another difference is the tortilla— street tacos almost always use soft corn tortillas , while regular tacos might use hard shells or flour tortillas. The simplicity of street tacos lets the core ingredients shine.

Q: How are you supposed to eat street tacos?

Street tacos are best eaten with your hands , no utensils required. To enjoy them the traditional way: Hold the taco gently with both hands. Take a bite from the side, tilting your head if needed to avoid spills. Eat quickly after assembling to enjoy the warm tortillas and fresh toppings at their best. Expect a little mess—that’s part of the fun! You can also add a touch of extra sauce or lime juice between bites for a flavor boost. Just be sure to keep a napkin handy!

What Makes Street Corn Chicken Tacos a Summer Favorite?

There’s something about juicy chicken, charred corn, and bright flavors that just work when the sun’s out and the grill’s hot. Street Corn Chicken Tacos are built for warm weather, especially with their fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and that mouthwatering blend of sweet, spicy, creamy, and smoky.

Unlike heavy stews or baked casseroles, tacos keep it light while delivering huge flavor. The grilled corn adds a slightly sweet crunch, the avocado gives a buttery mouthfeel, and the jalapeño lime sauce ties it all together with a little heat. This is what summer tastes like.

And here’s the kicker—they’re actually good for you. Each serving of two tacos packs in over 30 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber, with just 512 calories. That means you can enjoy bold flavor without blowing your diet.

The Mexican Street Food Influence on Modern Taco Recipes

Street Corn Chicken Tacos are a modern spin on traditional Mexican street food, especially elotes—grilled corn slathered with mayo, cheese, lime, and spices. Combine that with the universal appeal of tacos, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish that balances authentic roots with creative flair.

What makes them special is the use of real, whole ingredients like fresh corn, homemade seasoning, and creamy sauces made without dairy. It’s a blend of rustic street-style flavor and wellness-focused updates.

Mexican street food has always been about bold flavors on a budget—and these tacos stay true to that vibe. They’re simple to prep, quick to grill, and endlessly customizable.
Don’t miss our Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe if you’re building out a full cookout menu.

Ingredients Deep Dive for Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Sazon Chicken Seasoning Breakdown

At the heart of these tacos is flavor-packed sazon chicken. Instead of relying on store-bought taco seasoning, this recipe calls for a homemade blend that’s bolder and more vibrant. Here’s what makes it unforgettable:

Cumin and coriander bring deep, earthy flavor.
Turmeric adds warmth and that golden color.
Garlic powder and oregano balance out the spice with aromatics.
Cayenne (optional) introduces a mild kick for heat-lovers.
A splash of olive oil helps the seasoning stick while also promoting a great grill sear.

Marinate for at least 30 minutes—or even better, overnight—for tender, flavorful chicken every time.

Don’t miss our One-Pan Harissa Chicken with Chickpeas if you’re into bold spices and easy prep.

Grilled Corn Prep and Flavor Enhancers

Grilled corn isn’t just a topping—it’s the flavor bomb that gives these tacos their signature street food vibe. Brushed with olive oil and dusted with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, each ear of corn is grilled until slightly charred. That caramelization unlocks a sweet and smoky taste that elevates everything it touches.

Once grilled, the kernels are shaved off the cob and tossed into a vibrant salsa that captures the essence of Mexican elote.

Pair this with the smoky flavor in our Best Homemade Chili Recipe for a knockout meal prep combo.

The Role of Fresh Salsa & Creamy Jalapeno Lime Cashew Sauce

Now let’s talk taco magic—the toppings.

Corn Avocado Salsa

This refreshing mix combines:

Sweet grilled corn
Creamy diced avocado
Fresh cilantro
Red onion
A squeeze of lime
Sliced jalapeños for that raw crunch and heat

It’s chunky, colorful, and balances all the savory flavors with acidity and freshness.

Jalapeno Lime Cashew Sauce

This sauce is dairy-free but irresistibly creamy. Made with soaked cashews, lime juice, jalapeños, garlic, and a touch of onion powder, it blends into a drizzle-worthy, velvety topping that cools and contrasts the grilled ingredients.

Pro tip: Make extra—you’ll want to pour it over everything from salad bowls to roasted veggies.

Discover great ideas like this Tofu Stir Fry with Cashew Sauce if you love plant-based flavor profiles.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

seasoned chicken thighs for street corn tacos — Chicken marinating in a flavorful sazon blend

Prepping the Cashew Sauce: Soak, Blend, Serve

The creamy jalapeño lime cashew sauce is the crown jewel of these tacos—and it’s deceptively easy to make. Here’s how:

Soak the Cashews:
You’ve got two options—either soak them in warm water for 2+ hours or do the quick method:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add raw cashews, remove from heat, and let them sit for 30 minutes.
- Drain well.
Blend Until Creamy:
Combine the soaked cashews with:
- ⅓ cup fresh water
- 1 seeded jalapeño
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Black pepper to taste
Blend on high until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If too thick, add water 1 tbsp at a time to thin.
Set Aside or Chill:
The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Bonus: It thickens into a dip!

Learn more about dairy-free sauce ideas in our Creamy Mushroom Spinach Orzo post.

Marinating and Grilling Chicken Thighs Like a Pro

Flavorful chicken begins in the marinade:

Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, toss 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Let it marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
Grill to Perfection:
- Preheat your grill to 400°F.
- Grill chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temp hits 165°F.
- Rest for 5 minutes under foil, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Grilling Corn and Building the Street Corn Salsa

grilled corn avocado salsa for tacos — Freshly tossed grilled corn salsa with lime and herbs

Season the Corn:
Rub 2 ears of corn with 2 tsp olive oil, and sprinkle with:
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper
Grill Until Charred:
Place on the grill alongside the chicken. Rotate occasionally for 15–20 minutes, until nicely charred.
Make the Salsa:
Once cool, cut the kernels off the cob and mix with:
- 1 diced avocado
- 1 thinly sliced jalapeño
- ⅓ cup finely chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt & pepper to taste

This fresh, tangy salsa perfectly balances the rich, seasoned chicken and the creamy cashew sauce.

Assembling the Perfect Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Tortilla Tips: How to Warm, Char, and Choose Right

Tortillas may seem like a small detail, but they can make or break your taco experience. Here’s how to get them just right:

Choose Corn Tortillas
Street tacos are traditionally served on soft corn tortillas, which provide a toasty, nutty flavor that complements the grilled chicken and charred corn.
Warm or Char for Texture
- To warm: Wrap tortillas in foil and place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- To char: Use a gas burner or skillet—place tortillas directly on the flame (or dry pan) for 15–30 seconds per side until slightly blackened and flexible.
Double Up if Needed
Corn tortillas are delicate. Doubling up ensures they hold all the fillings without tearing.

Don’t miss our Gluten-Free Chicken Tacos if you’re looking for more allergy-friendly tortilla options.

Layering Technique: Sauce, Chicken, Salsa, Garnishes

To make sure every bite of your Street Corn Chicken Tacos is packed with balanced flavor, follow this layering formula:

Start with a Sauce Base
Spread a spoonful of the jalapeño lime cashew sauce on each warm tortilla. This prevents sogginess and delivers creamy goodness in every bite.
Add the Grilled Chicken
Place chopped, marinated grilled chicken on top of the sauce. Use about 2–3 ounces per taco.
Top with Corn Salsa
Add a generous spoonful of your fresh grilled corn and avocado salsa. Let it spill over the edges—that’s where the magic is.
Drizzle Extra Sauce
A final zigzag of cashew lime sauce adds extra creaminess and aesthetic flair.
Finish with Garnishes
- Extra sliced jalapeños (for heat)
- Chopped cilantro (for color and freshness)
- A squeeze of lime for brightness

And that’s it. You’ve built a taco with perfectly layered textures—creamy, juicy, crunchy, and spicy.

Check out Chicken and Cheese Quesadillas for another build-your-own meal idea that plays well with similar flavors.

hands building street corn chicken tacos — Assembling tacos with all fresh toppings

Frequently Asked Questions About Street Corn Chicken Tacos

Are Mexican street tacos corn or flour tortillas?

Traditionally, Mexican street tacos use corn tortillas, not flour. Corn tortillas are more authentic and offer a firmer texture that holds fillings better—especially juicy meats like grilled chicken or al pastor. In recipes like Street Corn Chicken Tacos, soft corn tortillas add a slightly charred, smoky flavor when warmed or grilled, perfectly complementing the spiced chicken and creamy toppings.
Want to switch it up? You can use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer bite or need something more flexible, but corn keeps it classic and gluten-free.

What are the nutrition facts for Chicken Street Tacos?

Each serving of two Street Corn Chicken Tacos contains approximately 512 calories. These tacos also provide a great balance of macronutrients, offering about 30 grams of protein, 44 grams of carbohydrates, and 26 grams of healthy fats. They’re also packed with fiber—about 10 grams per serving—thanks to the avocado, corn, and other whole ingredients. This makes them both filling and nutritious, perfect for lunch or dinner.

How are street tacos different from regular tacos?

Street tacos are usually smaller in size and use minimal toppings, focusing on bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Unlike regular tacos, which often include cheese, lettuce, and sour cream, street tacos highlight essentials like grilled meat, diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a simple squeeze of lime. Another difference is the tortilla—street tacos almost always use soft corn tortillas, while regular tacos might use hard shells or flour tortillas. The simplicity of street tacos lets the core ingredients shine.

How are you supposed to eat street tacos?

Street tacos are best eaten with your hands, no utensils required. To enjoy them the traditional way:
Hold the taco gently with both hands.
Take a bite from the side, tilting your head if needed to avoid spills.
Eat quickly after assembling to enjoy the warm tortillas and fresh toppings at their best.
Expect a little mess—that’s part of the fun!
You can also add a touch of extra sauce or lime juice between bites for a flavor boost. Just be sure to keep a napkin handy!