Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw

Name: Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 2 limes; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small tortillas; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw because they are fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with a zesty slaw creates a delightful balance that never fails to impress. I often prepare these tacos for family gatherings or casual weekday dinners, and they always receive rave reviews. Plus, they come together quickly, making for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:33:36.862Z

When I first experimented with these tacos, I was amazed at how well the lime slaw complemented the shredded chicken. The tanginess of the lime paired beautifully with the rich flavors of the meat, creating an explosion of taste in each bite.

One specific tip I found helpful is to let the chicken marinate in lime juice before cooking; this elevates the flavor and ensures the meat stays juicy and tender. It’s a game-changer!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Fresh and zesty flavors that hit the spot
Tender chicken that's easy to prepare
Crunchy slaw adds a delightful texture

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The chicken is the star of this dish, and choosing high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a juicy and tender texture. Marinating the chicken in lime juice not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. The acidity in the lime juice breaks down proteins, making the chicken more succulent. If you're in a pinch, chicken thighs can serve as a great substitute, offering a richer flavor profile.

The lime slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the chicken. Each component plays a crucial role: the cabbage provides a sturdy base with a slightly sweet flavor, while the carrots add a hint of earthiness. Olive oil enriches the slaw, helping the ingredients meld together. For a twist, consider adding ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Cooking Techniques to Perfect Your Tacos

For the chicken, cooking over medium heat is essential to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent drying out. Shredding the chicken with two forks right after cooking helps maintain its juiciness, as the fibers pull apart easily when warm.

When assembling your tacos, warming the tortillas is key to preventing them from tearing. You can heat them on a skillet for about 30 seconds per side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for just 15-20 seconds. This enhances their pliability, making for a better taco experience. Don’t skip the cilantro garnish; it adds an aromatic freshness that ties the dish together.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 2 limes

For the Lime Slaw

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Taco Assembly

8 small tortillas
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Enjoy these tacos with a fresh lime wedge on the side!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, combine lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks.

Make the Lime Slaw

In a separate bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined and set aside.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and top with lime slaw. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Serve these tacos warm and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, diced tomatoes, or hot sauce for an extra kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare both the shredded chicken and lime slaw ahead of time, making this dish a breeze on busy weeknights. The chicken can be marinated the night before and cooked in advance; just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. It stays fresh for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to help retain moisture.

The lime slaw can also be made several hours in advance. However, for optimal crunch, I recommend combining the cabbage and carrots with the dressing just before serving. This prevents the vegetables from wilting, ensuring a delightful texture. If you have leftovers, store them separately to maintain the slaw’s crispiness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These shredded chicken tacos can be customized with various toppings. Consider adding slices of avocado or guacamole for creaminess, or jalapeños for spice. Crumbled queso fresco or feta can complement the tacos nicely, providing a salty bite that pairs well with the zesty lime flavors. You can also serve the tacos with a side of black beans or Mexican rice to round out the meal.

For a different flavor profile, try using different spices in the chicken marinade, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to elevate the taste. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with jackfruit, seasoned similarly, which mimics the texture of pulled chicken and absorbs the flavorful spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

→ Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, the lime slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance; just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for tortillas?

You can use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or gluten-free tortillas if needed.

→ How spicy are these tacos?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust the chili powder to your preference.