Grilled Cajun Chicken Tacos with Ranch Drizzle Description:
These Grilled Cajun Chicken Tacos are smoky, spicy, and bursting with flavor! Tender chicken is marinated in a Cajun spice blend and grilled to perfection, then tucked into soft tortillas with crisp toppings and finished off with a cool, creamy ranch drizzle. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or taco night!Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time (optional): 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30–45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Chicken:
500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
Juice of ½ lime
Salt to taste
For the Ranch Drizzle:
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1½ tbsp milk (adjust consistency)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried dill
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional but Recommended):
Shredded lettuce or cabbage
Diced tomatoes
Sliced red onion
Diced avocado
Fresh cilantro
Jalapeño slices
Lime wedges
Tortillas:
6–8 small flour or corn tortillas (soft taco size), warmed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and salt.
Let it marinate for 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
2. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temp 75°C / 165°F).
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Make the Ranch Drizzle:
Mix all the ranch drizzle ingredients in a small bowl.
Thin with milk until pourable. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the tortillas.
Fill with grilled chicken, your choice of toppings, and drizzle with ranch.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use store-bought ranch dressing?
A: Yes, store-bought ranch works fine. The homemade version adds a fresher taste, but either is delicious.
Q: Is Cajun chicken spicy?
A: Cajun seasoning has a mild to moderate kick. You can reduce the spice by using less or adding a touch of honey to the marinade.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out. Store the ranch and toppings separately.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through.
Q: How do I make it vegetarian?
A: Substitute chicken with grilled halloumi, spiced tofu, or roasted cauliflower for a tasty veg option.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving — 2 tacos)
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~390 kcal
Protein 28g
Carbohydrates 25g
Sugars 3g
Fat 21g
Saturated Fat 5g
Fiber 3g
Sodium 650mg
Nutrition may vary based on toppings and
tortilla typ