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Three vibrant shrimp tacos filled with grilled shrimp, shredded cabbage, fresh pico de gallo, and a creamy sauce, garnished with cilantro and a lime wedge on a white plate.
Reda

Spicy Chipotle Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema

These vibrant shrimp tacos feature perfectly seared, spicy chipotle shrimp, a crisp and refreshing slaw, and a cool, creamy avocado crema. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 30 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 495

Ingredients
  

For the Chipotle Shrimp
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
For the Avocado Crema
  • 1 large ripe avocado pitted and scooped
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro loosely packed
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 pinch salt to taste
For the Tacos & Toppings
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese optional
  • 1 jalapeƱo thinly sliced, optional
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Blender or Food Processor

Method
 

Make the Avocado Crema
  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), cilantro, garlic clove, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until completely smooth. If it's too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches a drizzling consistency. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Prepare and Cook the Shrimp
  1. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with the chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary).
  3. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
Assemble the Tacos
  1. Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can do this in a dry skillet, over a gas flame, or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave.
  2. To assemble, lay a warm tortilla flat. Add a small handful of shredded cabbage, top with 3-4 pieces of chipotle shrimp, and drizzle generously with the avocado crema. Garnish with crumbled cotija cheese and sliced jalapeƱos, if desired. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Notes

For a milder version, reduce the chipotle chili powder to 1/2 teaspoon. The avocado crema can be made a few hours ahead; press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning and refrigerate. Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.