Description
Easy Chili Shrimp Tacos are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy shrimp are seasoned with a blend of chili spices, cooked swiftly on the stovetop, and served in warm tortillas topped with fresh cabbage and cilantro, offering a delicious Mexican-inspired dish that’s ready in just 16 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Serving
- 8 small tortillas (corn or flour based on preference)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to heat thoroughly to ensure a good sear on the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through, being careful not to overcook them to keep them tender.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp cooks, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until they are soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Divide the cooked shrimp evenly among the warmed tortillas, then top each with shredded cabbage and freshly chopped cilantro for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the assembled tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top to add a bright, zesty finish.
Notes
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook very quickly and can become tough if left too long.
- Add avocado slices, your favorite salsa, or a creamy sauce like sour cream or aioli for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or flour tortillas if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
