Irresistible Blackened Cajun Chicken Tacos & Lime Slaw
Experience a flavor fiesta with these Blackened Cajun Chicken Tacos paired with a refreshing Lime Slaw. Juicy chicken coated in a smoky Cajun spice blend meets a zesty, crunchy slaw for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Cajun seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt)
- Green cabbage
- Red cabbage
- Shredded carrots
- Fresh cilantro
- Fresh lime juice
- Mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
- Small corn tortillas or flour tortillas
- Grapeseed oil, avocado oil, or clarified butter (ghee)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lime Slaw: Chop vegetables by thinly slicing the cabbage and shredding the carrots. Finely chop the cilantro and place all in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt/blend), fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper until smooth.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. Toss gently until all vegetables are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning generously over all sides and press it into the chicken.
- Blacken the Chicken: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat for 3-5 minutes until smoking hot. Add oil to the pan, swirling to coat.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-4 minutes per side until blackened and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm tortillas by wrapping in foil and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or heating individually in a skillet.
- Assemble the Tacos: Slice the rested chicken against the grain. Take a warm tortilla, add lime slaw, and top with chicken. Garnish with optional toppings if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: For the best flavor, use fresh lime juice and consider making your own Cajun seasoning. The lime slaw can be prepared ahead of time, and don't overcrowd the pan when blackening the chicken.