Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw

Name: Shredded Chicken Tacos With Lime Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; Juice of 2 limes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cuisine Explorer

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Tacos with Lime Slaw for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken and a zesty, crunchy slaw is simply irresistible. Every bite is a burst of freshness, and the lime adds a delightful tang that elevates the dish. Whether it's Taco Tuesday or just a casual weeknight dinner, these tacos always hit the spot. I enjoy preparing them because they come together in no time and take advantage of whatever toppings I have on hand.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:13:36.517Z

When I first decided to make Shredded Chicken Tacos, I didn’t expect them to become a family favorite. The beauty of this dish lies in the simplicity of shredding the chicken and mixing it with bold spices. I discovered that cooking the chicken in a flavorful broth ensures it stays juicy and full of flavor, making each taco a delightful treat.

Adding lime slaw not only adds crunch but also a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the chicken. I love to customize my slaw with whatever fresh herbs I have on hand. This dish has become my go-to for any gathering, and it never fails to impress!

        You'll Love These Tacos Because:
        The vibrant lime slaw elevates these tacos with a burst of flavor.
Tender, shredded chicken soaked in spices makes each bite unforgettable.
Versatile recipe that allows for endless topping variations.

      

The Importance of Perfectly Shredded Chicken

Achieving tender, juicy shredded chicken is the foundation of these tacos. When simmering the chicken with spices in broth, keep an eye on the heat—too high can lead to dry chicken, while too low might not cook it through in the suggested 20 minutes. Use a thermometer to confirm doneness; chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, the forks will easily separate the meat, ensuring the perfect texture for your tacos.

Returning the shredded chicken to the pot is a key step. This not only keeps the chicken warm but allows it to soak up the flavorful broth, making every bite rich and moist. If you find your chicken a bit dry, consider adding more broth or a splash of lime juice during this process for added moisture and flavor.

Crafting Your Lime Slaw

The lime slaw is crucial for balancing the rich flavors of the chicken with its refreshing crunch. Here, the acidity from the lime juice interacts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the cabbage, creating a well-rounded profile. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning; a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors significantly. If you prefer a little heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can be a delightful addition to the slaw.

For a different texture, consider exchanging some of the cabbage for thinly sliced radishes or adding sliced bell peppers. These variations not only modify the flavor but also create an appealing color contrast, making your tacos visually enticing. You can also use a food processor with a shredding attachment to save time while preparing the slaw, ensuring even sizes for optimal distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the tacos

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas

For the lime slaw

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

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a pot, combine chicken breasts, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Prepare the Slaw

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well mixed and set aside.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot to absorb extra flavor.

Assemble Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a skillet. Fill each with shredded chicken and top with lime slaw. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your tacos with toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!

Storing and Reheating

If you're making these tacos ahead of time, both the chicken and slaw can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for about 3-4 days, while the slaw is best consumed within 2 days for maximum crunchiness. When reheating the chicken, use low heat to prevent it from drying out, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. The slaw, however, should be enjoyed cold for the best texture.

Consider doubling the chicken portion for meal prep! This way, you can create an easy taco night or use the leftover chicken in salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week. This makes cooking during busy evenings much simpler and allows you to enjoy the flavor-packed chicken in various ways that fit your meals.

Taco Topping Variations

While the lime slaw is a standout topping, the beauty of tacos lies in their versatility. Popular options include diced avocado for creaminess, crumbled queso fresco for a salty bite, or chipotle sauce for those who like it spicy. Pickled red onions add a tangy crunch that complements the dish beautifully. Experimenting with different toppings not only adds flavor but also texture and visual appeal to your meal.

Feel free to elevate the flavor profile by incorporating different herbs or spices into your toppings. Fresh jalapeños can bring the heat, while fresh mint or basil can introduce an unexpected yet delightful twist. I often keep a variety of toppings on hand to let everyone customize their tacos according to their tastes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for a quicker option.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

You can substitute the chicken with shredded jackfruit or beans for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How can I make the slaw spicier?

Add minced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the slaw for an added kick.

→ Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and slaw in advance and warm them up when ready to serve.