Name: Chili Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Lime Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded green cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 2 green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lime juice (plus extra lime wedges for serving); 1/2 tsp honey; 8 small corn or flour tortillas

Why You’ll Love Chili Shrimp Tacos with Creamy Lime Slaw Recipe

This recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The creamy lime slaw adds refreshing tang and crunch, while the chili-spiced shrimp cook in just minutes, making this a great quick dinner option. It’s customizable with your favorite toppings and perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Lime Slaw:
mayo
olive oil
lime juice
agave or sweetener
salt and freshly cracked black pepper
coleslaw mix

For the Chili Shrimp:
flour or corn tortillas
butter
olive oil
raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
salt
chili powder
garlic powder
black pepper
Optional toppings: sliced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, hot sauce

Directions

Prepare the slaw: Whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, olive oil, agave, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the coleslaw mix and toss so the cabbage is well coated. Let it sit while you cook the shrimp — it tastes better slightly marinated.
Warm the tortillas: Heat tortillas over an open flame or in a skillet until softened and lightly charred. Wrap them in foil to keep warm.
Cook the shrimp: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium. When foaming, add the shrimp, sprinkle with salt, chili powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Assemble tacos: Place some slaw on each tortilla, top with cooked shrimp, and add your favorite toppings like avocado or sour cream. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: Approximately 15 minutes
Cook time: Approximately 10 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes

Variations

• Grilled shrimp: Swap skillet cooking for a grill to add smoky flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the chili seasoning for more heat.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle queso fresco or cotija over the finished tacos for a salty finish.
• Different slaw: Replace coleslaw mix with shredded red cabbage or add julienned carrots for extra color and crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly before assembling tacos again. The slaw is best enjoyed fresh or cold directly from the fridge.

FAQs

What type of shrimp works best for these tacos?

Fresh or frozen raw shrimp that is peeled and deveined works well. Medium to large shrimp are ideal for tacos.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lime slaw a few hours ahead — the flavors deepen as it rests.

What tortillas should I use?

Both corn and flour tortillas work; corn offers more authentic flavor while flour is softer.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp seasoning.

Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?

Yes — grilling adds nice smoky flavor and cooks the shrimp quickly.

What toppings pair well with these tacos?

Avocado slices, sour cream, cilantro, and hot sauce are all great options.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Omit the mayo in the slaw or use a dairy-free alternative, and skip sour cream toppings.

How do I prevent soggy tortillas?

Warm them gently and keep them wrapped in foil until serving to help maintain texture.

Can I substitute the slaw mix?

Yes, finely shredded cabbage or a mix of greens can be used instead.

How long will leftovers keep?

Cooked shrimp and slaw will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days if stored separately.

Conclusion

Chili shrimp tacos with creamy lime slaw are a quick and flavorful meal solution that’s easy to customize and perfect for busy weeknights. With a tangy slaw and well-seasoned shrimp, this dish brings together refreshing and savory elements in every bite.