Crispy Chicken and Lobster Tacos

Name: Crispy Chicken and Lobster Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked); 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 lime, juiced; 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornmeal; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup buttermilk; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

I absolutely love combining seafood and poultry in exciting new ways, and these Crispy Chicken and Lobster Tacos are the perfect example! The crunch of the chicken paired with the rich, sweet flavors of the lobster creates a delightful bite. Each ingredient complements the other, giving a luxurious twist to a classic taco. Whether I'm hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these tacos never fail to impress. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make, so anyone can bring this culinary experience to their table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:37:27.450Z

When I first thought of pairing crispy chicken with fresh lobster, I knew I was onto something special. I experimented with various seasonings, and a light marinade for the chicken really made the flavors pop. Each bite bursts with a combination of textures—crispy, tender, and juicy. One secret I discovered is letting the tacos rest for just a minute after assembling to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

I'm always on the lookout for innovative taco ideas, and this one quickly became a favorite. The key is using high-quality lobster and ensuring that the chicken is perfectly seasoned. The contrast in flavors and textures makes these tacos stand out, and they make a gorgeous presentation for gatherings!

        Why You'll Love These Tacos
        Crunchy chicken texture that contrasts perfectly with tender lobster
Fresh ingredients combined for a flavor explosion
Perfectly balanced spices that elevate any taco night

      

Mastering the Perfect Batter

Getting the batter right is crucial for these Crispy Chicken and Lobster Tacos. The combination of all-purpose flour and cornmeal gives the batter a delightful crunch while keeping it light enough to complement the tender seafood. Make sure to whisk the buttermilk gradually to prevent lumps; the mixture should be smooth and free of clumps. A few minutes of resting can also help the batter adhere better to the proteins, ensuring a beautiful, crispy coating when fried.

When it comes to seasoning the batter, achieving the right balance is key. The garlic powder and paprika impart a subtle warmth, while cayenne adds a kick without overpowering the natural flavor of the chicken and lobster. Don’t forget to season your batter with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste. If you wish to change things up, consider adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.

Frying Tips for Crispy Perfection

Frying the chicken and lobster to crispy perfection requires maintaining the right oil temperature. Ideally, vegetable oil should be heated to about 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy, as overheating can lead to burnt batter while leaving the proteins undercooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small amount of batter; it should sizzle and rise to the top immediately. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the temperature to drop and the batter to become soggy.

Draining the fried ingredients on paper towels is essential for maintaining their crispiness. I like to elevate the fried pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet after they come out of the oil, which prevents steam from making them soggy. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the crispy chicken and lobster right after removing them from the oil to enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

These Crispy Chicken and Lobster Tacos can be a showstopper at any gathering, but they are also perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Consider serving with a zesty mango salsa or a fresh avocado slice to brighten the flavor profile. A side of tortilla chips with a tangy dip enhances the meal, and the bright colors make for an appealing presentation. Just a squeeze of fresh lime over the completed tacos rounds out the rich flavors beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and lobster separately from the tortillas and garnishes to preserve their textures. The fried ingredients can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, I recommend using an air fryer to maintain crispiness without adding extra oil. Simply heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

2 cups shredded chicken (cooked)
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup sour cream
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Batter

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup buttermilk
Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the buttermilk until smooth. Dip each piece of cooked chicken and lobster meat into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.

Fry the Ingredients

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the battered chicken and lobster pieces until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes each side. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Layer shredded cabbage on each tortilla, followed by a mix of crispy chicken and lobster. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy

Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the assembled tacos and serve immediately, enjoying the delightful crunch and rich flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the tacos or serving them with a spicy salsa on the side!

Ingredient Highlights

Using fresh lobster meat in these tacos significantly enhances the overall flavor and texture. If fresh lobster isn’t available, I recommend using frozen lobster tails, ensuring they are fully thawed and drained before cooking. The sweetness of the lobster contrasts beautifully with the salty, crunchy chicken, making each bite a delight. To add to the recipe’s versatility, feel free to substitute the lobster with shrimp for a different but equally tasty seafood option.

The choice of cabbage adds a fresh, crunchy element that provides balance to the richness of the fried ingredients. If you want to take it up a notch, feel free to swap in some spicy slaw or pickled vegetables to add tang and complexity to the dish. This little twist can elevate the flavor profile significantly, making each taco an exciting experience.

Variations to Try

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding jalapeño slices or a spicy aioli to your tacos. It’s a simple adjustment that can add a lovely heat and extra flavor. Another fun variation is to incorporate grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken and lobster for added texture and nutrients. These variations allow you to customize the tacos to your preference while keeping the core recipe intact.

If you're in the mood for a fusion twist, try incorporating different spices or sauces inspired by global cuisines. Perhaps a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of sesame seeds could give these tacos a unique Asian flair. Each choice you make not only expands the flavor but also invites creativity into the kitchen, making taco night even more exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before using.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can mix milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice for a quick buttermilk substitute.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for the batter, and check the taco tortillas for gluten-free options.

→ Can I bake the tacos instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the battered ingredients. Just spray with oil and bake at 400°F until crispy.