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Chicken Ranch Tacos with Shrimp

Chicken Ranch Tacos with Shrimp

Chicken Ranch Tacos with Shrimp combine juicy grilled chicken, tender shrimp, and a tangy ranch dressing to create a fast, flavorful taco perfect for weeknights or gatherings. This surf-and-turf recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and fresh flavors, easily customizable and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces
  • 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)

Seasonings & Oils

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

Sauces & Garnishes

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Tortillas & Vegetables

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Proteins: Season the chicken breast pieces lightly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a hot skillet and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and keep warm.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the peeled shrimp. Season with garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
  3. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a flame until soft and pliable. Keep them wrapped in a clean towel to stay warm and prevent drying out.
  4. Assemble the Tacos: Spread a spoonful of ranch dressing on each tortilla. Layer with chicken, shrimp, and fresh veggies such as chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced red onion. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Marinate proteins briefly in lime juice and spices for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken and shrimp to ensure even browning and texture.
  • Use fresh lime juice for brightness; bottled juice lacks freshness.
  • Warm tortillas properly to keep them soft and easy to roll.
  • Make ranch dressing from scratch to control herbs and seasoning balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken tacos, shrimp tacos, ranch tacos, surf and turf tacos, quick taco recipe, gluten free tacos, taco night