Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe: There’s an enchanting realm where food isn’t just about eating. It’s a blend of tales, cultures, and heartwarming flavors. In this world, birria tacos shine like a star, singing a melody of taste cherished over many sunrises and sunsets.
Read More: Broasted Chicken Recipe
What is birria?
Imagine a dish that feels like the gentle embrace of a dear friend. That’s birria for you. Hailing from the sun-kissed land of Mexico, birria is a spicy stew that has been loved for ages. Think of meat – like goat or beef – taking a long, cozy bath in a pool of zesty chilies. This bath turns the meat so soft, it’s like a cloud on a plate. What you get is a bowl full of warmth, perfect for days when the heart seeks comfort.
What are birria tacos?
Let’s stir a bit of magic into birria. Visualize scooping out the cloud-like meat from this stew and tucking it into a soft blanket – the tortilla. Voila! That’s a birria taco. And, here’s the secret: the tortilla gets a quick dip in the birria’s soup before wrapping the meat, making it taste like a dream. So, in the world of food, a birria taco is like a pocket-sized festival!
History of Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe

Birria tacos carry tales as old as time. Their story started in the lively corners of Jalisco, Mexico. Here, birria wasn’t just food; it was a part of joyous moments like weddings. A bowl full of happiness was shared with everyone. And one day, someone thought, “Why not make this joy portable?” And thus, the birria taco came to life. From homes to bustling streets, these tacos began warming hands and hearts alike.
Why are Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe so popular?
There’s a kind of magic in food that holds stories. Birria tacos aren’t just a treat to the stomach but to the soul. With each bite, you get a crunch, a burst of flavors, and a dip into its rich past. The play of the crispy tortilla and the melt-in-the-mouth meat, especially when paired with the deep, flavorful broth, feels like a dance party for the taste buds. It’s not just about how it tastes but the memories it carries, making birria tacos a worldwide sensation.
How to Make Chicken Birria Tacos at Home

Have you ever tasted something that took you on a journey? Well, birria tacos do just that. These aren’t just tacos; they are tales wrapped in tortillas. And while the heart of birria might beat strongest with goat or beef, chicken gives it a tender embrace, perfect for those trying their hand at it for the first time.
Imagine your kitchen filled with the aromas of spices mingling, whispering stories of ancient Mexican plazas. As the scent envelops you, think of it as an invitation – one to recreate history, flavor, and tradition right within your walls.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Skillet or frying pan
- Two large mixing bowls
- Meat shredder or forks
- Ladle or large spoon
Ingredients Used in Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 12 corn tortillas
In-Depth Instructions To Make Birria Chicken Tacos Recipe:
- Setting the Stage: Begin by laying out your ingredients. Think of it as assembling your cast before the grand play.
- Laying the Foundation: In a Dutch oven (or any large pot you have), let the vegetable oil dance on medium heat. As it warms, welcome the onions and garlic. They’ll slowly transform, taking on a golden hue, setting the mood for what’s to come.
- Whisper of Spices: Now, the magic starts. Dust in your spices – chili powder, cumin, oregano, and the rest. As they hit the warmth, they’ll begin singing – releasing their aromatic notes, filling your kitchen with melodies.
- Chicken’s Debut: The star, our chicken, then makes its entrance. Allow each piece to soak in the spotlight, browning beautifully on all sides.
- A Symphony of Flavors: Gently cascade the chicken broth, red wine, and lime juice into your pot. Stir in cilantro with love. Each element blends, creating a harmonious backdrop for the chicken to shine.
- The Slow Dance: As the mix starts to bubble, it’s time to let it waltz. Turn down the heat, allowing the chicken to tenderly simmer, absorbing stories of each ingredient, for an hour.
- The Transformation: Once cooked to perfection, give the chicken a moment to rest, like an artist after a performance. Then, with passion, shred it, letting each strand absorb the rich consomé.
- Crispy Serenade: Now, the tortillas. On a skillet, they need just a gentle warmth. Consider dipping them in the consomé before warming them, making them a part of this flavor fest.
- The Grand Finale: Assemble with Heart. Lay the shredded chicken generously on the tortilla, fold with care, and there you have it – a masterpiece, a journey, a tale, all wrapped in one.
Cooking and Preparing Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (5 minutes for sautéing the onion and garlic, 5 minutes for browning the chicken, and 1 hour for simmering)
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutrition (Per taco, approximate values):
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Potassium: 220mg
Special Note:
The joy of biting into a freshly made birria taco! To capture that perfect crunch, it’s essential to savor them straight from the pan. And if you’re looking for a bit of a dip, why not use the aromatic consomé on the side? Personal touches like avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle more of cilantro can elevate the experience. Remember, food is personal; make it your own.
Summary:
Step into a world of rich flavors and tantalizing aromas with chicken birria tacos. This Mexican masterpiece melds the depth of a spicy stew with the delightful crunch of a golden tortilla. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a comfort meal, this dish promises a journey of culinary delight. Let each bite transport you to the bustling streets of Jalisco, with its vibrant history and unmistakable zest for life.
Tips to Nail That Chicken birria Taco Recipe Every Single Time:

- Consistency is Key: A perfectly thickened stew is the heart of this dish. If yours feels more like a soup, let it enjoy a longer simmer. Too thick? A splash of chicken broth can work wonders.
- Freshness Matters: Ever heard the phrase, “Fresh is best”? It’s especially true here. Freshly plucked cilantro can elevate your dish from good to gourmet.
- The Patience Game: It might be tempting to shred that chicken straight from the pot, but a brief rest can make it even more succulent. Trust me, patience pays!
- Golden Broth: That consomé you have left? It’s liquid gold. Save it for dipping or as a base for future culinary experiments.
Variations You can make in Birria Chicken Taco Recipe
- Adventure with Meats: While our feathery friend chicken is a lean choice, you might want to venture with beef, goat, or pork. Each meat sings its own flavorful tune.
- Veggie’s Delight: Meat not on your menu? Jackfruit steps up as a worthy contender. Its texture, combined with birria’s richness, is pure harmony.
- Twist in Tortillas: Corn tortillas might be the classic choice, but why not go rogue with flour or even a low-carb version? It’s all about what wraps your filling best.
- Spice Route: Whether you’re a fire-chaser or a milder soul, you’re in control. Dial up the chili for a fiery fiesta or dial down for a gentle warmth.
- Cheese, Please!: Can we take a moment to appreciate the melt-in-mouth magic of cheese? A sprinkle (or more) before folding, and you’re in for a cheesy treat.
Conclusion:
Birria tacos! They aren’t just another dish; they’re like pages torn from the heart of Mexican history. They echo tales of ancient traditions and whisper secrets of culinary wonders. When I think about their roots, it isn’t the fleeting buzz of a food fad that comes to mind. Instead, I picture a grand tapestry where threads of diverse cultures interweave, each strand bearing tales of shared meals and laughter.
Imagine, for a moment, the meticulous process of crafting these tacos. It’s not just cooking; it’s alchemy. The simmering meat melding with spices is not unlike a heartwarming symphony, where each note — or in this case, flavor — strikes a chord, evoking comfort, nostalgia, and pure joy.
Sure, the traditional birria taco is timeless, like an old family photograph. But the canvas of cooking invites strokes of creativity. From the meat used to the toppings sprinkled, every variation sings its unique song, ensuring that whether it’s your first or fiftieth time making them, the experience is novel and intriguing.
You see, in the grand theater of life, cooking isn’t just an act; it’s an expression. Birria tacos stand testament to that sentiment. They aren’t merely items on a plate. They’re stories, emotions, and fragments of shared memories. From quiet family dinners where they’re the unsung heroes to lively gatherings where they’re the centerpiece, these tacos never promise just a full stomach but a heart brimming with cherished moments.
So, the next time you find yourself amidst the aroma of spices and the sizzle of the skillet, know this: Crafting birria tacos isn’t just about adhering to steps. It’s an intimate dance where you don’t just add ingredients, but sprinkle tales, dreams, and a piece of your soul. And perhaps, that’s the magic that makes every bite not just delicious but deeply, profoundly special.

Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Skillet or frying pan
- Two large mixing bowls
- Meat shredder or forks
- Ladle or large spoon
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken cut into pieces
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro finely chopped
- 12 corn tortillas
Instructions
- Setting the Stage: Begin by laying out your ingredients. Think of it as assembling your cast before the grand play.
- Laying the Foundation: In a Dutch oven (or any large pot you have), let the vegetable oil dance on medium heat. As it warms, welcome the onions and garlic. They'll slowly transform, taking on a golden hue, setting the mood for what's to come.
- Whisper of Spices: Now, the magic starts. Dust in your spices – chili powder, cumin, oregano, and the rest. As they hit the warmth, they'll begin singing – releasing their aromatic notes, filling your kitchen with melodies.
- Chicken's Debut: The star, our chicken, then makes its entrance. Allow each piece to soak in the spotlight, browning beautifully on all sides.
- A Symphony of Flavors: Gently cascade the chicken broth, red wine, and lime juice into your pot. Stir in cilantro with love. Each element blends, creating a harmonious backdrop for the chicken to shine.
- The Slow Dance: As the mix starts to bubble, it's time to let it waltz. Turn down the heat, allowing the chicken to tenderly simmer, absorbing stories of each ingredient, for an hour.
- The Transformation: Once cooked to perfection, give the chicken a moment to rest, like an artist after a performance. Then, with passion, shred it, letting each strand absorb the rich consomé.
- Crispy Serenade: Now, the tortillas. On a skillet, they need just a gentle warmth. Consider dipping them in the consomé before warming them, making them a part of this flavor fest.
- The Grand Finale: Assemble with Heart. Lay the shredded chicken generously on the tortilla, fold with care, and there you have it – a masterpiece, a journey, a tale, all wrapped in one.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ
What is the origin of birria tacos?
Answer: Have you ever taken a moment to dive into the stories behind your favorite dishes? Birria tacos have a tale as rich as their flavor. They hail from the sun-soaked state of Jalisco in Mexico. Picture this: grand celebrations with birria made from goat meat, a centerpiece at weddings, and other major events. And just as stories evolve with time, so did the recipe. Different areas added their own twist, giving birth to the birria tacos we all adore today.
Can I make birria tacos without red wine?
Answer: Oh, absolutely! Cooking is all about tweaking and making a dish truly yours. While red wine does give it that extra depth, you’re not bound by it. Swap it out for more chicken broth or even a hint of apple cider vinegar for a zest. Remember, the kitchen is your playground; personalize the recipe to your heart’s content.
How can I store leftover birria taco filling?
Answer: Ever had one of those days where leftovers from last night’s dinner saved the day? Store your birria taco filling in a snug airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll wait patiently for up to 4 days. Planning even further ahead? Into the freezer it goes! When those cravings strike, defrost, warm, and dive right in. A splash of broth might just bring back its initial zest.
Are birria tacos spicy?
Answer: Ah, the age-old question about spice! Traditional birria tacos carry a gentle hum of spice, thanks mainly to the chili powder. But isn’t it wonderful? When you’re the chef, you’re also the artist. Paint your culinary canvas with as much or as little spice as you desire. Turn up the heat or keep it mellow; the choice is all yours.
What other toppings can I add to my birria tacos?
Answer: The topping game is where the fun truly begins! Classics like cilantro and lime never go wrong, but why not wander off the beaten path? Imagine the crunch of diced onions, the sharp zest of radishes, the creamy embrace of sour cream, or the fiery hello from sliced jalapeños. And let’s not forget the tangy charm of pickled red onions. Mix, match, and find that flavor symphony that makes your heart sing.