Print

Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Tacos with Easy Chipotle Cilantro Lime Slaw

garlic butter shrimp tacos - featured image

A quick and flavorful shrimp taco recipe featuring garlic butter shrimp and a smoky, tangy chipotle cilantro lime slaw, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: sliced avocado, extra lime wedges, chopped fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slaw: In a medium bowl, combine shredded green cabbage and shredded carrots. In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss well to coat. Let sit about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Let it melt and foam but not brown (about 1-2 minutes).
  3. Add minced garlic to the butter and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side without moving to get a sear. Flip and cook another 2 minutes until pink and opaque.
  5. Warm tortillas in a dry pan or microwave wrapped in a damp towel until soft and pliable.
  6. Assemble tacos by spooning shrimp onto tortillas, topping with chipotle cilantro lime slaw, and adding optional garnishes. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure shrimp sear properly. Watch butter temperature to avoid burning. Add garlic after butter melts but before shrimp. Use fresh lime juice to brighten flavors. If shrimp release excess liquid, increase heat to evaporate quickly. Overcooked shrimp can be brightened with a squeeze of lime. Slaw can be prepared ahead and tossed just before serving. For dairy-free mayo substitute, use plain coconut yogurt. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, garlic butter shrimp, chipotle cilantro lime slaw, quick dinner, easy tacos, weeknight meal