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Tacos hold a cherished place in culinary traditions across the globe, particularly in Mexican cuisine, where they are celebrated for their versatility, flavor, and convenience. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, tacos can be found in countless variations, each one reflecting the unique ingredients and culture of its origin. One of the most delightful taco recipes is Zesty Chicken Tacos with Crunchy Lime Slaw, a dish that combines fresh flavors with vibrant ingredients, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a casual family dinner, or simply craving a delicious homemade dish, this recipe promises to impress.

Chicken Tacos with Lime Slaw

Bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table with these delicious Zesty Chicken Tacos featuring a crunchy lime slaw. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos combine tender, marinated chicken thighs with a refreshing slaw made from colorful vegetables and zesty lime dressing. They're not just a meal; they're a celebration of community and flavor. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, these tacos promise to impress and satisfy. Indulge in this joy of cooking and create lasting memories around your dining table.
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Juice of 1 lime

For the Lime Slaw:

2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded

1 cup carrots, grated

½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)

3 tbsp mayonnaise

1 tbsp Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

Juice of 2 limes

Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

8 small corn tortillas

Sliced avocado, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Extra cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Whisk thoroughly to create a marinade. Add the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor profile.

    Prepare the Lime Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded cabbage, grated carrots, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño (if using for some heat). In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to evenly coat. Taste and adjust the lime juice and seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate the slaw while you cook the chicken.

      Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the pan. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked—internal temperature should reach 165°F—and has a nice char on the surface. Once cooked, remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, then slice the chicken into strips.

        Heat the Tortillas: In a clean, dry skillet over medium heat, warm the corn tortillas one at a time for about 30 seconds on each side or until they become pliable. To keep them warm and prevent them from drying out, place them in a tortilla warmer or wrap in a clean kitchen towel.

          Assemble the Tacos: Take a warmed tortilla and place a few strips of the sliced chicken onto it. Top with a generous scoop of lime slaw, and add a few slices of avocado. For extra freshness, garnish with additional cilantro and drizzle with more lime juice if desired.

            Serve: Arrange your zesty chicken tacos on a platter and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick!

              Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr (including marinating time) | Servings: 4 servings.

                - Presentation Tips: Consider serving the tacos on a colorful platter with lime wedges neatly arranged around them. A sprinkle of extra cilantro on top of the tacos adds a vibrant touch!