BBQ Chicken Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw

The aroma of smoky barbecue sauce mingled with the tangy zest of lime and crisp cabbage slaw – that’s what filled my kitchen last week when I decided to try out these BBQ Chicken Tacos. Let me tell you, they were a hit! Even my picky eaters, usually skeptical of anything beyond plain chicken nuggets, devoured these tacos. The combination of sweet and savory BBQ chicken with the cool, crunchy slaw was simply irresistible. It was a weeknight dinner that felt special, yet was surprisingly easy to pull together. These tacos are destined to become a regular in our rotation, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you so you can experience the same delicious success in your own kitchen! Get ready for a flavor explosion that will make taco night your favorite night of the week!

Ingredients for Irresistible BBQ Chicken Tacos

To make these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw, you’ll need a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. We’ve broken it down into components for easy shopping and preparation:

• For the BBQ Chicken:
  • Chicken Breasts: 2 lbs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the protein powerhouse of our tacos, providing a lean and satisfying base.
  • Your Favorite BBQ Sauce: 1 ½ cups, choose a sauce that complements your taste – sweet, smoky, or spicy, it’s your call! This is the flavor anchor of the chicken, adding depth and richness.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing and keeping the chicken moist – a healthy fat that aids in cooking and flavor development.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle savory depth to the chicken seasoning – enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, complements the onion powder and BBQ sauce, creating a well-rounded savory taste – essential for a flavorful chicken.
  • Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon, for a hint of smoky flavor that enhances the BBQ notes – adding complexity and warmth.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors – foundational for any well-seasoned dish.
• For the Vibrant Red Cabbage Slaw:
  • Red Cabbage: ½ head, thinly shredded – the star of the slaw, providing vibrant color, crunch, and a slightly peppery bite.
  • Carrots: 2 medium, shredded – adds sweetness, color, and another layer of texture to the slaw – complementing the cabbage beautifully.
  • Green Onions: 3-4, thinly sliced – for a mild oniony flavor and fresh bite in the slaw – adding a subtle sharpness.
  • Mayonnaise: ½ cup, the creamy base of our slaw dressing, binding the ingredients together and adding richness – choose your favorite brand for the best flavor.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: ¼ cup, for tanginess and to balance the richness of the mayonnaise – crucial for cutting through the creaminess and adding brightness.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon, to sweeten the slaw and balance the vinegar – adding a touch of sweetness to complement the savory tacos.
  • Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon, adds a subtle savory depth and tanginess to the slaw dressing – enhancing the complexity of the flavor.
  • Celery Seed: ½ teaspoon, for a unique aromatic and slightly bitter note that elevates the slaw – adding a distinctive flavor element.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, to season the slaw and bring out all the flavors – essential for a well-balanced and flavorful slaw.
• For Taco Assembly:
  • Tortillas: Corn or flour, your preference – choose your favorite type and size, corn for a more traditional taco, flour for softer texture.
  • Optional Toppings: Avocado slices, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, pickled onions, crumbled cotija cheese, or your favorite taco toppings – customize your tacos to your liking and add extra flavor and texture.

Instructions: Crafting Perfect BBQ Chicken Tacos

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create delicious BBQ Chicken Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw that are sure to impress. We’ll break it down into preparing the chicken, making the slaw, and then assembling the final tacos.

Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, place the chicken breasts. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Massage the spices into the chicken to ensure even coating. This initial seasoning layer builds a flavorful foundation for the BBQ sauce to adhere to. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. This short marination time allows the spices to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.
2. Cook the Chicken: You have several options for cooking the chicken, depending on your preference and equipment:
   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Grilling imparts a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
   • Pan-Searing (Stovetop): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Then, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through. Searing creates a beautiful crust and locks in juices, while finishing in the covered skillet ensures even cooking.
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Baking is a hands-off method that results in tender and juicy chicken.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Shredding while slightly warm is easier and results in more tender pieces.
4. BBQ Sauce Infusion: In a large bowl or the same skillet (wiped clean), combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. If using a skillet, you can gently heat the sauced chicken over low heat for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly caramelize, enhancing the BBQ flavor even further. Be careful not to overheat and dry out the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Cabbage Slaw

1. Combine Slaw Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions. This colorful mix forms the base of our crunchy and refreshing slaw.
2. Whisk the Slaw Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more vinegar for tanginess, honey for sweetness, or salt and pepper to taste.
3. Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine thoroughly. Ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing.
4. Chill the Slaw (Optional but Recommended): For best results, cover the slaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to slightly soften. Chilling also enhances the crispness and refreshing nature of the slaw, making it a perfect contrast to the warm BBQ chicken. The slaw can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.

Step 3: Assemble the BBQ Chicken Tacos

1. Warm the Tortillas: Warm your tortillas according to package instructions or your preferred method. You can warm them in a dry skillet, microwave, or directly over a gas stovetop flame for a slightly charred flavor. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
2. Fill the Tacos: For each taco, layer a generous amount of BBQ chicken into a warm tortilla. Top with a heaping spoonful of the red cabbage slaw.
3. Add Optional Toppings: Customize your tacos with your favorite toppings. Consider adding avocado slices for creaminess, chopped cilantro for freshness, lime wedges for a squeeze of citrus, pickled onions for tang, or crumbled cotija cheese for a salty finish.
4. Serve and Enjoy! Serve your BBQ Chicken Tacos immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures! These tacos are perfect for a weeknight dinner, weekend gathering, or any occasion that calls for delicious and satisfying food.

Nutrition Facts: A Deliciously Balanced Meal

These BBQ Chicken Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw offer a surprisingly balanced nutritional profile for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. The following is based on one taco (using approximately 4 oz of chicken and ½ cup of slaw) and using corn tortillas:

• Serving Size: 1 Taco
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per taco. This is a moderate calorie count for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Protein: 25-30 grams. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle building and satiety. Protein helps keep you feeling full and satisfied after your meal.
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams. Carbohydrates come from the tortillas, BBQ sauce, and vegetables in the slaw. Choose whole grain tortillas for added fiber.
• Fat: 15-20 grams. Fat content comes from the mayonnaise in the slaw, olive oil, and BBQ sauce. The fat provides flavor and satiety. Opt for light mayonnaise to reduce fat content if desired.
• Fiber: 4-6 grams. Fiber is primarily from the red cabbage, carrots, and tortillas. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

While these tacos are a delicious and relatively balanced meal, be mindful of portion sizes and choose healthier options when possible. For example, using light mayonnaise in the slaw and whole wheat tortillas can further enhance the nutritional profile.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Dinner

The beauty of this BBQ Chicken Taco recipe is that it’s both incredibly flavorful and relatively quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes. This includes time for seasoning the chicken, shredding the cabbage and carrots, and whisking together the slaw dressing. Much of this prep can be done simultaneously to save time.
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes. This depends on your chosen cooking method for the chicken. Grilling and pan-searing will be on the shorter end, while baking might take a bit longer.
• Total Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes. From start to finish, you can have these delicious tacos on the table in under an hour, making them a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal.

You can even further reduce prep time by using pre-shredded cabbage and carrots, or by prepping the slaw dressing and chicken seasoning in advance.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Tacos for Maximum Enjoyment

These BBQ Chicken Tacos are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas for serving and pairing:

• Classic Taco Night Spread:
  • Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar where everyone can assemble their own tacos. Arrange bowls of BBQ chicken, red cabbage slaw, tortillas (warmed and kept warm in a tortilla warmer or wrapped in foil), and a variety of toppings.
  • Toppings Galore: Offer a selection of toppings such as:
    • Fresh: Diced tomatoes, chopped onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices or guacamole.
    • Dairy: Sour cream, shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, cotija).
    • Sauces: Hot sauce, salsa, pico de gallo.
    • Pickled: Pickled onions, pickled jalapeños.
• Side Dishes for a Complete Meal:
  • Mexican Rice: Serve with a side of classic Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice for a heartier meal.
  • Black Beans or Refried Beans: Beans are a great source of protein and fiber and complement the tacos perfectly.
  • Corn on the Cob or Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled or roasted corn adds a summery touch and sweetness.
  • Chips and Salsa or Guacamole: A classic appetizer or side that always pairs well with tacos.
  • Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tacos.
• Drinks to Complement the Flavors:
  • Margaritas: A classic pairing for tacos, especially on a warm day.
  • Mexican Beer: Light and refreshing Mexican beers like Modelo or Corona are excellent choices.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: Non-alcoholic options that are refreshing and pair well with the BBQ flavors.
  • Agua Frescas: Fruity and refreshing Mexican drinks like agua de jamaica (hibiscus) or agua de sandía (watermelon).
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Taco Holders: Use taco holders to keep the tacos upright and prevent fillings from spilling.
  • Garnish: Garnish the tacos with a sprig of cilantro or a lime wedge for visual appeal.
  • Platters: Arrange the tacos on a platter for a visually appealing presentation, especially for a party or gathering.

By offering a variety of serving options and side dishes, you can create a memorable and enjoyable BBQ Chicken Taco experience for everyone.

Additional Tips for BBQ Chicken Taco Perfection

To elevate your BBQ Chicken Tacos from delicious to absolutely extraordinary, here are eight additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Spice it Up (or Tone it Down): BBQ sauce comes in a wide range of spice levels. Choose a BBQ sauce that suits your preference. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or incorporate some jalapeños into the slaw or as a topping. For a milder flavor, opt for a sweeter BBQ sauce and omit any extra spice.
2. Marinate for Deeper Flavor: While a short 15-30 minute marinade is beneficial, if you have more time, marinating the chicken for 1-2 hours (or even overnight in the refrigerator) will infuse it with even more flavor and tenderize the meat. Just ensure the chicken is safely refrigerated during longer marination times.
3. Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to get creative with your red cabbage slaw. Add other vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers, jicama, or even some shredded apple for extra sweetness and crunch. You can also experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill in the slaw.
4. Tortilla Choice Matters: Corn tortillas offer a more traditional taco flavor and are gluten-free. Flour tortillas are softer and milder in flavor. Consider offering both options to cater to different preferences. For a healthier option, choose whole wheat or whole grain tortillas.
5. Don’t Overfill the Tacos: Resist the urge to overstuff your tacos. Overfilling can make them difficult to eat and cause the tortillas to break. A balanced filling-to-tortilla ratio is key for the best taco experience.
6. Make it Ahead (Components): You can save time on busy days by preparing components in advance. The red cabbage slaw can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. You can also cook and shred the chicken ahead of time, then simply reheat it and toss with BBQ sauce before assembling the tacos.
7. Get Creative with BBQ Sauce: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of BBQ sauce. Try a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, a sweet and tangy Kansas City style sauce, or even a Carolina mustard-based BBQ sauce for a unique twist. Each sauce will impart a different flavor profile to the tacos.
8. Warm Tortillas Properly: Warming tortillas is crucial for texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving them for too long, as they can become rubbery. The best methods are warming them in a dry skillet, on a griddle, or directly over a low gas flame for a slightly charred and smoky flavor. Keep warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or tortilla warmer to keep them warm and pliable until serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About BBQ Chicken Tacos

Here are eight frequently asked questions about making BBQ Chicken Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw, to help you troubleshoot and perfect your taco game:

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time?

A1: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce. This significantly reduces the cooking time, making this recipe even faster for a weeknight meal. Just ensure the chicken is heated through when you toss it with the BBQ sauce.

Q2: What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar for the slaw? Can I substitute something else?

A2: Yes, you can substitute other types of vinegar for apple cider vinegar in the slaw. White vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lime juice can work as substitutes. Lime juice will add a slightly different, more citrusy flavor, which can be delicious. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste to achieve the desired tanginess.

Q3: Can I make the red cabbage slaw ahead of time? How long will it last?

A3: Yes, the red cabbage slaw can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld in the refrigerator. The slaw will last for 2-3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cabbage and carrots will soften slightly over time, but it will still be delicious.

Q4: I don’t have celery seed. Is it essential for the slaw?

A4: Celery seed adds a unique flavor to the slaw, but it’s not strictly essential. If you don’t have it, you can omit it. Alternatively, you could try a pinch of dill seed or even a dash of onion powder for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q5: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing or baking?

A5: Yes, grilling the chicken is an excellent option and adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly. Grill the chicken breasts over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q6: What are some other toppings that would go well with these tacos?

A6: Beyond the suggested toppings, consider adding:
* Roasted corn kernels: For sweetness and texture.
* Pico de gallo: For fresh tomato and onion flavor.
* Avocado crema or sour cream with lime: For extra creaminess and tang.
* Jalapeño slices (fresh or pickled): For heat.
* Mango salsa: For a sweet and spicy tropical twist.

Q7: Can I freeze leftover BBQ chicken?

A7: Yes, you can freeze leftover BBQ chicken. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’s best to freeze the BBQ chicken separately from the slaw. The slaw is not recommended for freezing as the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate and the vegetables can become mushy. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before using.

Q8: Are these tacos gluten-free?

A8: The BBQ chicken and red cabbage slaw are naturally gluten-free. To make the entire meal gluten-free, use corn tortillas and ensure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free (some BBQ sauces may contain gluten as a thickening agent). Always check the ingredient labels to be sure.

By keeping these tips and FAQs in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to make fantastic BBQ Chicken Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw every time! Enjoy your taco adventure!

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