Print

Crispy Spicy Chicken Tacos with Creamy Jalapeño Sauce

Crispy Spicy Chicken Tacos with Creamy Jalapeño Sauce
Print Recipe

Crispy Spicy Chicken Tacos with Creamy Jalapeño Sauce offer a perfect balance of bold, spicy flavors and a crunchy texture complemented by a smooth, cooling jalapeño sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare, customizable, and ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests with a flavorful, satisfying taco experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized strips
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch or flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

Creamy Jalapeño Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo for dairy-free)
  • 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt

Taco Assembly

  • 6 soft taco tortillas (flour or corn, gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Pickled onions or radishes for extra crunch
  • Diced avocado
  • Roasted bell peppers instead of jalapeños for milder sauce
  • Crispy tofu or cauliflower as vegetarian protein option

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized strips. In a bowl, mix chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and cornstarch or flour. Toss the chicken strips in the spice mixture until evenly coated, ensuring each piece is covered for maximum crispiness and flavor.
  2. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F). Fry the chicken strips in batches without overcrowding, cooking each piece for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  3. Make the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely chopped jalapeños, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your preferred spice level.
  4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas briefly on a skillet or microwave. Place a handful of shredded cabbage on each tortilla, then add the crispy chicken strips. Drizzle generously with the creamy jalapeño sauce. Finish with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice. Add optional garnishes like pickled onions, radishes, or diced avocado as desired.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, dip the chicken strips in beaten egg before coating with cornstarch and spices.
  • Maintain the frying oil temperature around 350°F to ensure chicken crisps evenly without burning.
  • Serve extra creamy jalapeño sauce on the side for guests to adjust spice levels.
  • Use fresh jalapeños for vibrant flavor and heat in the sauce instead of jarred.
  • Let fried chicken rest on paper towels to fully drain oil and preserve crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken tacos, spicy chicken tacos, jalapeño sauce, quick chicken tacos, gluten-free tacos, Mexican tacos, creamy jalapeño sauce

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/crispy-spicy-chicken-tacos-with-creamy-jalapeo-sauce/