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 pound boneless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortillas; Avocado slices; Extra cilantro or lime wedges

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Inspirations

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Tacos with Lime Slaw for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. This recipe combines tender, flavorful shredded chicken with a zesty slaw that really brightens up the dish. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s packed with fresh ingredients. I always opt for using boneless chicken thighs, which add richness and help keep the meat juicy. Paired with lime juice and fresh cilantro, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:01:38.059Z

When I first tried making these Shredded Chicken Tacos with Lime Slaw, I was amazed at how easy it was to create something so delicious from scratch. The secret lies in marinating the chicken thighs in a simple blend of spices and lime juice, which infuses incredible flavor. I usually make the slaw just before serving to keep it crisp and refreshing.

One tip I found helpful is to shred the chicken using two forks while it’s still warm; this way, it stays incredibly moist. The combination of the tangy slaw and the seasoned chicken makes these tacos a favorite in our household. Give them a try, and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy and tender shredded chicken bursting with flavor
Tangy lime slaw adds a refreshing crunch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the best flavor and texture in your Shredded Chicken Tacos, boneless chicken thighs are highly recommended. They are more forgiving than chicken breasts since they have a higher fat content, which means they stay juicier and tender during cooking. If you only have chicken breasts, you can use those, but be careful not to overcook them to avoid dryness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

When marinating the chicken, allow at least 15 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the meat, but if you can spare a couple of hours, that’s even better. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper flavor. Just ensure you keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Perfecting the Lime Slaw

This lime slaw is not only refreshing but also plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the shredded chicken. The acidity from lime juice cuts through the fat, making each bite delightful. If you prefer extra crunch, consider adding chopped radishes or jicama to your slaw. These additions will enhance the texture without overwhelming the flavors.

For those who need to watch their sugar intake, you can substitute the honey with a low-calorie sweetener or simply reduce the amount to suit your taste. Additionally, if you're preparing this slaw ahead of time, try adding the lime dressing only shortly before serving; this prevents the cabbage from wilting and losing its crispness.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

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

For the lime slaw:

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

Corn tortillas
Avocado slices
Extra cilantro or lime wedges

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove from heat and shred the chicken using two forks.

Make the lime slaw

In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper, then pour over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.

Assemble the tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet. Place shredded chicken on each tortilla, top with lime slaw, and add avocado slices and extra cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the tacos. If you prefer a more creamy slaw, feel free to add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. For freezing, make sure the chicken is completely cooled before placing it in freezer-safe bags to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

The lime slaw is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare it in advance, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain its crispness. You can store the slaw mix in an airtight container in the fridge for about two days, adding the dressing right before it's time to eat.

Serving Variations

While corn tortillas are traditional for serving these tacos, feel free to experiment with other types of tortillas, such as flour or whole wheat, depending on your preference. If you want to add a little heat, consider including sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of the assembled tacos.

You can also turn this dish into a burrito bowl by serving the shredded chicken and lime slaw over a bed of rice or quinoa. Top with avocado slices, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese for a wholesome and filling meal that’s just as delicious as the tacos.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may not be as moist as thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How far in advance can I make the slaw?

You can make the slaw up to 2 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make these tacos spicy?

Absolutely! Add some diced jalapeños to the chicken or slaw for a spicy kick.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to add toppings like cheese, salsa, or even pickled onions to customize your tacos!