Chipotle BBQ Shrimp Tacos

Chipotle BBQ Shrimp Tacos are a smoky, spicy, and tangy twist on traditional shrimp tacos. Juicy shrimp are tossed in a bold chipotle BBQ sauce, then nestled into warm tortillas and topped with crunchy slaw, creamy sauce, and fresh garnishes. They’re quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for taco night, cookouts, or an easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tacos bring the heat, the sweet, and the savory all in one bite. The chipotle BBQ sauce adds a deep, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. With a crunchy slaw and cool crema or avocado topping, every taco is a balance of textures and flavors. They’re fast to make, incredibly satisfying, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
• Lime juice
• Cilantro (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Avocado or guacamole (optional)

directions

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
3. In a separate bowl, mix BBQ sauce with finely chopped chipotle peppers and some adobo sauce.
4. Toss the cooked shrimp in the chipotle BBQ mixture until well coated.
5. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
6. Prepare a simple slaw by tossing shredded cabbage with lime juice and a pinch of salt.
7. Assemble the tacos: add slaw to each tortilla, top with chipotle BBQ shrimp, a drizzle of crema or sour cream, and garnish with cilantro and sliced avocado if using.
8. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings (8 tacos).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicier: Add extra adobo sauce or hot sauce to the BBQ mixture.
• Tropical Touch: Top with a pineapple or mango salsa for a sweet contrast.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the shrimp and slaw in lettuce cups instead of tortillas.
• Grilled Version: Grill the shrimp on skewers instead of pan-searing for smoky char.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free crema or skip it and add a squeeze of lime and avocado instead.

storage/reheating

Store the cooked shrimp and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving too long as shrimp can become rubbery.
Tortillas can be reheated in a skillet or microwave before assembling. Assemble tacos fresh just before serving for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.

What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?

A smoky or honey BBQ sauce pairs well with chipotle. Choose one you love—spicy, sweet, or tangy.

Are these tacos very spicy?

They have a moderate spice level. You can adjust by using fewer chipotle peppers or adding more adobo for extra heat.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Absolutely. Thread the seasoned shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

Can I make the chipotle BBQ sauce from scratch?

Yes. Blend canned chipotle peppers with ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices for a homemade version.

What’s a good dairy-free alternative to crema?

You can use a plant-based sour cream, or drizzle with lime juice and add avocado for creaminess.

What sides go well with these tacos?

Mexican rice, black beans, grilled corn, or a citrusy cucumber salad make great pairings.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

You can prep the slaw and sauce ahead, and even marinate the shrimp. Cook and assemble tacos just before serving.

What type of tortilla works best?

Either corn or flour tortillas work. Corn gives a more traditional flavor, while flour tortillas are soft and pliable.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, just warm them gently and toss in the BBQ chipotle sauce. Be careful not to overheat and dry them out.

Conclusion

Chipotle BBQ Shrimp Tacos are bold, zesty, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or your next taco night, they offer a balance of smoky shrimp, crunchy slaw, and creamy toppings that everyone will love. They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and guaranteed to be a new favorite at your table.

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