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Crispy Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Tangy Chipotle Crema

crispy spicy shrimp tacos - featured image

These crispy spicy shrimp tacos feature a perfectly seasoned crust and a tangy, smoky chipotle crema, making them a quick and delicious meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola oil preferred)
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter twist)
  • 12 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper; whisk until blended.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
  4. Dip each shrimp into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated. Place coated shrimp on a plate.
  5. Pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a skillet and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry shrimp in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip gently. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  7. While shrimp fry, mix sour cream, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, honey, and salt in a bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in the oven until soft and pliable.
  9. Assemble tacos by layering shredded cabbage, crispy shrimp, a drizzle of chipotle crema, avocado slices, and cilantro on each tortilla. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt shrimp. Dry shrimp thoroughly before coating for best crispiness. You can double dredge shrimp for extra crunch. Chipotle crema flavors improve if made ahead and chilled. For gluten-free, use almond flour. For vegan, substitute shrimp with battered cauliflower and use vegan sour cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp tacos, crispy shrimp, chipotle crema, spicy tacos, quick dinner, easy tacos, seafood tacos