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Tacos are a beloved culinary staple enjoyed by food enthusiasts around the globe. Their versatility allows for endless variations, from traditional beef and chicken fillings to vegetarian and seafood options. One such exciting twist on this classic dish is the Cherry Fiesta Chicken Tacos. This innovative recipe marries the savory goodness of grilled chicken with the sweet, tart notes of fresh cherries, resulting in a taco that is as delightful to the palate as it is to the eyes.

Chicken Tacos with Cherry Slaw

Spice up your taco night with Cherry Fiesta Chicken Tacos! This unique recipe combines juicy grilled chicken thighs with a fresh cherry slaw for a delicious twist on a classic dish. Infused with aromatic spices and zesty lime, these tacos are not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually stunning. Perfect for gatherings or a simple dinner, they're easy to prepare and full of flavor. Discover a fiesta of tastes with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Juice of 1 lime

For the Cherry Slaw:

2 cups fresh red cabbage, finely shredded

1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and sliced into halves

½ cup grated carrots

¼ cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

To Serve:

8 small corn or flour tortillas

Lime wedges, for serving

Additional cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.

    Prepare the Cherry Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded red cabbage, halved cherries, grated carrots, and chopped cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the slaw mix and gently toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

      Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove from heat and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

        Warm the Tortillas: In a separate dry skillet over medium heat, lightly warm the tortillas for approximately 30 seconds on each side, just until they become pliable and warm.

          Assemble the Tacos: For each taco, place a few slices of the sliced chicken in the center of a warmed tortilla. Generously top with the cherry slaw, then add a sprinkle of additional cilantro. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to enhance the flavors.

            Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos immediately while they are fresh, accompanied by lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Arrange the tacos on a colorful platter and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an inviting presentation. Consider adding a small bowl of extra cherry slaw on the side for those who love a fresh crunch!