The Ultimate High-Protein Taco Night is Here
If taco night needed an upgrade, this is it. These chili-lime shrimp tacos are bold, fresh, and packed with protein while still feeling light and vibrant. The shrimp roast quickly on a sheet pan with smoky spices and citrus, the cabbage slaw brings crunch and brightness, and the avocado jalapeño crema ties everything together with a creamy, slightly spicy finish.
It’s fast, colorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a laid-back gathering.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 8 tacos)
Ingredients
The Sheet Pan Chili-Lime Shrimp
1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chili powder
Zest and juice of 1 lime
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt
The Crunchy Cabbage Slaw
2 cups shredded green and purple cabbage blend
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Pinch of salt
The High-Protein Avocado Jalapeño Crema
1 ripe avocado
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 garlic clove
Pinch of salt
The Assembly
8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Set to 220°C (425°F) and line a sheet pan with parchment.
Season the shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
Arrange on sheet pan
Spread shrimp in a single layer for even cooking.
Roast the shrimp
Bake for 8–10 minutes until pink, opaque, and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the slaw
In a bowl, combine cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Toss and set aside.
Make the crema
Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, jalapeño, lime juice, garlic, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Warm tortillas
Heat tortillas in a pan or microwave until soft and pliable.
Build the tacos
Add a layer of slaw onto each tortilla.
Add shrimp
Top with a generous portion of chili-lime shrimp.
Finish and serve
Drizzle with avocado jalapeño crema and serve with lime wedges.
Tips
Pat shrimp dry before seasoning for better roasting.
Don’t overcrowd the pan or shrimp will steam.
Use fresh lime for the best flavor.
Blend crema until completely smooth for a silky texture.
Adjust jalapeño to control heat level.
Warm tortillas just before serving to prevent cracking.
Add a light char to tortillas for extra flavor.
Taste and adjust salt in each component.
Serve immediately for best texture.
Use large shrimp for a meatier bite.
Variations
Swap shrimp with grilled chicken or fish.
Add diced mango or pineapple for sweetness.
Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for low-carb.
Add sliced avocado instead of crema for simplicity.
Include pickled onions for tangy contrast.
Add cheese like cotija or feta.
Make it spicier with hot sauce or extra jalapeño.
Use red cabbage only for a more vibrant look.
Turn into a bowl with rice or quinoa.
Add corn salsa for extra texture and flavor.
Q & A
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before using.
How do I know shrimp are done?
They turn pink and opaque with a slight curl.
Can I make the crema ahead?
Yes, up to 1 day ahead. Store covered in the fridge.
Are these tacos spicy?
Mild to medium depending on jalapeño and chili powder.
What tortillas work best?
Both corn and flour work; corn gives a more traditional flavor.
Can I grill the shrimp instead?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor.
How do I keep tortillas warm?
Wrap in foil or a clean towel.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a plant-based yogurt alternative.
What sides go well with this?
Rice, beans, or chips and salsa.
Can I store leftovers?
Store components separately and assemble fresh.
Nutrition
(Approx. per serving – 2 tacos)
Calories: 380–420
Protein: 30–35g
Carbohydrates: 28–32g
Fat: 14–18g
Fiber: 4–5g
Sugar: 3–5g
Conclusion
This high-protein taco setup keeps things simple while delivering big flavor. The chili-lime shrimp bring heat and brightness, the slaw adds crunch, and the avocado jalapeño crema gives a smooth, creamy finish that ties it all together. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for turning any night into a taco night worth looking forward to.