Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw

Name: Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded; 1 carrot, grated; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons honey; Salt and pepper to taste; Taco shells or tortillas; Sliced avocado; Diced tomatoes; Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Food Fix

I absolutely love making these shredded chicken tacos with lime slaw! They are a vibrant and fresh twist on your traditional taco recipe, with juicy chicken and a zesty slaw that always brings a smile to my face. The combination of flavors is just incredible, and I can whip them up in no time for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try them, they'll quickly become a staple in your home.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:29:36.682Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of a summer fiesta right in my kitchen. The shredded chicken is cooked with a blend of spices that infuses every bite with flavor. I found that using fresh lime juice in the slaw not only adds brightness but also keeps the cabbage crisp and vibrant, giving a delightful crunch to each taco.

To really elevate these tacos, I like to grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best results. You could also use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time during busy weekdays!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Juicy, flavorful chicken that’s easy to make
Crisp lime slaw that adds a refreshing crunch
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and fun gatherings

Mastering the Shredded Chicken

When preparing the shredded chicken, the choice of thighs over breasts is key to achieving a juicy result. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are excellent for roasting, but boneless, skinless thighs work perfectly here, as they absorb flavors well and remain tender during cooking. Ensure you marinate them for at least 30 minutes; this not only infuses them with flavor but also helps in tenderizing. For a quick marinade, consider adding a bit of lime zest to brighten the flavor even more.

Cooking the chicken to the right temperature is crucial for both safety and taste. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for precision. If you don’t have one, look for the juices to run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink inside. After cooking, let the chicken rest for about five minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Crafting the Perfect Lime Slaw

The lime slaw is an essential component, enhancing the tacos' flavor profile with its crisp texture and zesty notes. Using both green and purple cabbage not only adds a beautiful color contrast but also balances crunchiness. The addition of honey in the slaw provides a subtle sweetness that offsets the acidity of the lime, creating a well-rounded flavor. If you need a vegan option, swap out the honey for agave syrup or maple syrup to keep the flavors harmonious.

To prevent the slaw from becoming watery before serving, it’s best to prepare it shortly before assembling the tacos. After mixing the ingredients, let it sit for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors without releasing too much liquid. This waiting period allows the cabbage to soften just slightly while retaining its crunch, ensuring each taco bite is both fresh and texturally satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lime Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
1 carrot, grated
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Taco shells or tortillas
Sliced avocado
Diced tomatoes
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before shredding.

Make the Lime Slaw

In a separate bowl, mix together the cabbages, grated carrot, cilantro, lime juice, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss to combine.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the taco shells or tortillas. Fill each shell with shredded chicken and top with the lime slaw. Add avocado, diced tomatoes, and sour cream if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the tacos. You can also replace chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option, but thighs add more flavor and moisture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These shredded chicken tacos can be dressed up in numerous ways to suit your taste. Try adding pickled onions or jalapeños for an extra kick. Alternatively, incorporate black beans or corn into the slaw for added texture and flavor. If gluten is a concern, opt for corn tortillas instead of traditional flour shells, which also have a delicious taste that pairs well with the chicken and slaw.

You can also customize the toppings to fit your preference. Sliced avocado adds a creamy element, while diced tomatoes provide a fresh burst of flavor. For a healthier twist, consider Greek yogurt over sour cream as a topping. Experimenting with fresh herbs like mint or dill can elevate the flavor profile, bringing in a unique twist to your taco night!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to meal prep these tacos, both the chicken and the slaw can be made ahead of time. Cook the chicken and shred it; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the shredded chicken on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through without drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth while microwaving helps to keep it moist.

The lime slaw can be prepared a few hours ahead of time, but for optimal freshness, combine the ingredients separately and mix them just before serving. Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, but be mindful that the slaw may lose some crunch over time. It’s best enjoyed fresh to preserve the textures that make these tacos so delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and shred the chicken ahead of time. Just warm it up when you're ready to assemble the tacos.

→ What can I substitute for the lime juice?

You can use lemon juice, but lime brings a unique flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shredded beef, pulled pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftover chicken and slaw can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble tacos when ready to eat!