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Irresistible Chicken Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

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Quick, vibrant, and delicious chicken tacos paired with a refreshing cilantro lime slaw, perfect for a flavorful and easy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional: sliced avocado, jalapeños, or crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Whisk until well mixed.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  3. Make the Cilantro Lime Slaw: Shred cabbage and carrots finely. Chop cilantro. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, mayonnaise or yogurt, salt, and pepper until creamy.
  4. Toss the Slaw: Add shredded veggies and cilantro to the dressing and toss thoroughly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken thighs and cook 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through and charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest and Slice the Chicken: Transfer chicken to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips.
  7. Warm the Tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side or microwave wrapped in a damp cloth for 20-30 seconds.
  8. Assemble the Tacos: Place sliced chicken on each tortilla, top with cilantro lime slaw, and add optional toppings like avocado or jalapeños. Serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid texture changes. Cook chicken without overcrowding the pan for a good sear. Make slaw fresh or up to 2 hours ahead to keep crunch. Rest chicken before slicing to retain juiciness. Warm tortillas properly to keep them pliable.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tacos, cilantro lime slaw, easy dinner, quick recipe, Mexican tacos, healthy tacos, gluten-free tacos, dairy-free option

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