Ancho Chili Grilled Shrimp Tacos

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're on the hunt for a taco recipe that bursts with flavor and a hint of spice, these Ancho Chili Grilled Shrimp Tacos are a must-try. The smoky, earthy ancho chili powder pairs perfectly with juicy grilled shrimp, creating a taco experience that's both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients for Ancho Chili Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp are the star of this dish, providing a juicy, tender protein that's perfect for grilling. Ancho chili powder brings a smoky, mild heat that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Olive oil helps in marinating and grilling, adding a subtle richness. Garlic infuses the shrimp with a savory depth, while lime juice brightens the overall flavor profile. A touch of salt and black pepper enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.

The corn tortillas are the vessel that holds all the deliciousness together, while avocado slices add creaminess. The crunchy cabbage and tangy red onion balance the flavors beautifully. Cilantro introduces a fresh, herby note, and the sour cream and apple cider vinegar in the slaw provide a creamy, tangy finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Don't skip the marinating time — it really amplifies the flavors.
  • If you don't have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works just as well.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

These tacos pair beautifully with a side of Mexican street corn or a chilled black bean salad. If you're in the mood for drinks, a light, citrusy margarita complements the smoky flavors wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
What if I don't like cilantro?
You can substitute with fresh parsley or simply omit it.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The slaw can be made a few hours in advance, but the shrimp are best grilled fresh.

Ancho Chili Grilled Shrimp Tacos Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, you'll want to prepare the marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine the ancho chili powder, olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything's well mixed. Now, add your peeled and deveined shrimp, tossing them until they're thoroughly coated in that flavorful marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes so they can soak up all that goodness.

While the shrimp are marinating, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Once it's nice and hot, place the shrimp on the grill. They only need about 2-3 minutes per side, so keep an eye on them. You'll know they're done when they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcook them, or they'll become rubbery.

While the shrimp are grilling, prepare the slaw. In a separate bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, thinly sliced red onion, chopped cilantro, sour cream, and apple cider vinegar. Mix everything well to ensure the cabbage is evenly coated.

Next, warm your corn tortillas on the grill for about a minute on each side. This enhances their flavor and makes them pliable, perfect for holding the filling without tearing.

Now comes the fun part — assembling your tacos! Place a few shrimp on each tortilla, add a couple of avocado slices, then top it off with a generous scoop of your cabbage slaw. Serve immediately, and relish every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes after marinating.
  • A perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors.
  • Fresh, crunchy slaw adds a delightful texture contrast.
  • Light yet filling, making it perfect for a summer evening.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp ancho chili powder
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 limes, juiced
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
8 small corn tortillas
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ancho chili powder, olive oil, garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cabbage, red onion, cilantro, sour cream, and apple cider vinegar for the slaw. Toss to mix.
6. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute per side.
7. Assemble the tacos by placing grilled shrimp on a tortilla, adding avocado slices, and topping with slaw.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy.

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