Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

April 16, 2026 by Kimberly

Since you unfortunately can’t eat fried chicken every single day, here is my favorite everyday alternative: a chicken salad with flavorful, completely fat-free cooked chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, creamy ranch dressing, and crunchy tortilla pieces. Quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and anything but boring, this salad is exactly what you need if you are looking for an easy chicken salad recipe that is packed with flavor.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

30 min

SERVES

2 people

DIET

omnivore

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

I’m probably the biggest fan of crispy chicken in every form. Preferably with a really thick, crunchy, fried coating. But in everyday life, it unfortunately can’t be fried chicken every single day, so I had to come up with a version that uses no extra fat at all and still tastes just as good. It may not have that crispy coating, but it makes up for it with the most flavorful, delicious spice coating you could imagine.

And this recipe gets a huge bonus point from me because it fits so effortlessly into everyday life in our home. I make this chicken almost every week anyway and often keep it sliced in the fridge, because we also love using it as homemade deli-style chicken for sandwiches like this Apple Cucumber Brie Turkey Sandwich. That means this salad usually comes together in no time, and that is exactly what I love most about it.

And then you have everything that makes a really good salad: crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, sweet corn, thinly sliced onion, a creamy dressing, and those golden pan-fried tortilla pieces. Add the flavorful chicken, a little lime juice, and a few flakes of salt, and suddenly it is not just a salad anymore, but a really good example of how delicious a quick meal can be even without fried chicken.

So if you are looking for a salad that is easy, full of flavor, and perfect for prepping ahead, this is one of those recipes you will probably end up making just as often as I do.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing

Crunchy Tortilla Blackened Chicken Bowl with Ranch Dressing


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 30 min
  • Yield: 2

Description

Since you unfortunately can’t eat fried chicken every single day, here is my favorite everyday alternative: a chicken salad with flavorful, completely fat-free cooked chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, creamy ranch dressing, and crunchy tortilla pieces. Quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and anything but boring, this salad is exactly what you need if you are looking for an easy chicken salad recipe that is packed with flavor.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

  • plate for marinating the chicken
  • oven
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • large salad bowl
  • small bowl for the dressing
  • small pan for the tortilla pieces

Ingredients

Units Scale
BLACKENED CHICKEN
  • 400 grams chicken breast filet
  • 2 1/4 tsp paprika powder
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp oregano, dried
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
RANCH DRESSING
  • 100 grams full-fat yogurt
  • splash of milk
  • 3 tsp chives, dried
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp parsley, dried
  • 1/2 tsp dill, dried
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp salt
SALAD
  • romaine salad
  • 1 small cucumber
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 120 grams corn
  • 1 small red onion
  • 2 tortilla wraps
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C / 345°F.
  2. On a plate, mix together all the spices for the blackened chicken until well combined: salt, oregano, garam masala, garlic, cayenne pepper, curry powder, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Coat the chicken breast all over in the spice mixture so it is evenly covered. Place it on a baking tray and bake for 45 minutes.
  4. Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool completely. Then slice it into thin strips. You can also make it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge overnight.
  5. While the chicken is in the oven, make the dressing. Mix the yogurt with onion powder, dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside until ready to use.
  6. Chop the romaine lettuce and wash it well. Slice the cucumber, cut the bell pepper into small pieces, and slice the onion into thin strips. Drain the corn well.
  7. Cut the tortilla wraps into small squares and toss them with a little olive oil, smoked paprika powder, and garlic powder. Fry them in a pan until golden and crispy.
  8. Add the romaine lettuce, cucumber, bell pepper, corn, and onion to a large salad bowl. Pour over the ranch dressing and toss everything together well. Add the crispy tortilla chips and gently mix again.
  9. Slice the cooled chicken breast into thin strips and spread it over the salad. Finish with flaky salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
  • Cook Time: 30 min

CRAVING MORE?

Follow along here & don’t forget to subscribe to my substack!

Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw

Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw

Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw

Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw

March 15, 2025 by Kimberly

A little smoky, a little sweet, and a whole lot of flavor. Spiced shrimp, crispy slaw, and a punchy citrus glaze wrapped in warm tortillas. Every bite is giving peak summer energy.

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

25 min

SERVES

4 tacos

DIET

omnivore

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

If you’re looking for tacos that actually hit to spot, this is the one. Smoky, spicy shrimp caramelized in a honey mustard butter glaze, crisp cabbage slaw tossed with fresh passionfruit and lime, all tucked into warm tortillas. It’s the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and freshness. This is not your basic taco night, this is tropical and vibrant.

These tacos are best served fresh, straight off the pan, while the shrimp are still warm and juicy. A chilled margarita or a sparkling lime soda? Absolute game-changer. And if you’re feeling extra, a drizzle of extra honey mustard glaze over the top seals the deal. Tacos this good deserve to be the main event.

Shrimp are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Reheat gently in a pan to keep them from drying out. The slaw can last a day, but keep the dressing separate until serving.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw
Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw
Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw
Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

Print
.tasty-recipe-responsive-iframe-container-efc144ce { position: relative; overflow: hidden; padding-top: 56.3%; } .tasty-recipe-responsive-iframe-container-efc144ce iframe { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; border: 0; } clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw

Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Passionfruit Lime Slaw


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 25 min
  • Yield: 4 tacos / 2 portions

Description

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

  • oven
  • aluminum foil
  • large pan
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • small bowl

Ingredients

Units Scale
SHRIMPS SAUCE
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 fresh chili
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp butter
PASSIONFRUIT LIME SLAW
  • 200 grams white cabbage
  • 5 grams fresh cilantro
  • 1 red onion
  • 100 grams yogurt
  • juice of 1 lime
  • 1 passionfruit
  • salt & pepper to taste
OTHER INGREDIENTS
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • fresh cilantro, for topping
  • scallions, for topping

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C / 392°F. Stack the tortillas, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil, and place them in the oven to keep them warm and soft.
  • Prepare the Cajun seasoning. Toss the shrimp with the seasoning and set aside.
  • Make the Passionfruit Lime Slaw. Thinly slice the cabbage and red onion. Pick the cilantro leaves off the stems and add everything to a large bowl. Mix in yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper, and toss well. Cut open a passionfruit, scoop out the pulp and juice, and mix it into the slaw.
  • Prep the toppings. Thinly slice the green part of the scallions and pick some extra cilantro leaves. Set aside for later.
  • Make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, avocado oil, pressed garlic, finely chopped fresh chili, cayenne pepper, and melted butter. Set aside.
  • Cook the shrimp. Heat a large pan over high heat. Once hot, add a little oil and sear the shrimp quickly. Pour in the prepared glaze and let it simmer over medium heat until it thickens into a creamy consistency.
  • Assemble the tacos. Remove the tortillas from the oven and place two on each plate. Layer with the slaw, then spoon the glazed shrimp (with sauce) on top. Finish with sliced scallions and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.
  • Cook Time: 25 min

CRAVING MORE?

Follow along here & don’t forget to subscribe to my substack!

Fresh Shrimp Tacos & Coleslaw

Fresh Shrimp Tacos & Coleslaw

Fresh Prawn Tacos & Slaw

Fresh Shrimp Tacos & Coleslaw

April 9, 2024 by Kimberly

Discover the joy of Fresh Shrimp Tacos & Slaw – a zesty, mouth-watering feast that’s perfect for any day. Easy, delicious, and absolutely unforgettable!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

TOTAL TIME

40 min

SERVES

12 tacos

DIET

omnivore

EVERY RECIPE DESERVES

A Little Love Letter

Dive into the delightful world of Fresh Shrimp Tacos & Slaw, your new go-to recipe for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal. This dish combines the juicy, succulent flavors of fresh shrimps with the crisp, refreshing taste of homemade slaw, all wrapped up in a soft taco shell. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes, sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Serve these tacos fresh off the skillet for the best experience. Pair them with a side of lime wedges & extra slaw. Don’t forget a cold, refreshing drink to wash down the flavors. These shrimp tacos are not just food – they’re a vibrant, interactive dining experience that everyone can get excited about.

Leftover shrimp fillings and slaw can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to two days, making for an easy, delicious lunch or dinner option whenever you’re short on time.

Hi, I'm Kimberly!

Hi, I'm Kimberly.

A hopeless romantic when it comes to food. Every recipe I share is a love letter to food itself. I’m so glad you’re here. Make yourself at home and stay a while.

Love,
Kimberly

Kimberly the Zett Signature

If you want to get to know me better,
click here!

 

 

Fresh Prawn Tacos & Slaw
Fresh Prawn Tacos & Slaw

LET’S MAKE A PIECE OF HAPPINESS

Print
.tasty-recipe-responsive-iframe-container-782000ab { position: relative; overflow: hidden; padding-top: 177.62%; } .tasty-recipe-responsive-iframe-container-782000ab iframe { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; border: 0; } clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Fresh Prawn Tacos & Slaw

Fresh Shrimp Tacos & Coleslaw


  • Author: Kimberly
  • Total Time: 35 min
  • Yield: 12

Description

GOOD TO HAVE ON HAND

  • sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • two medium-sized bowls
  • small pan
  • large pan

 


Ingredients

Units Scale
SLAW
  • 250 grams white cabbage
  • 250 grams red cabbage
  • 1 cup cilantro
  • 1 red onion
  • 200 grams low fat yogurt
  • salt & pepper to taste
SHRIMPS
  • 550 grams black tiger shrimps (26/30 p. lb. frozen count)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for marinade
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprik
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes
TOPPINGS & TACOS
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 2 limes
  • 3 tbsp yogurt
  • 2 spring onions
  • cilantro

Instructions

  1. If you’re using frozen shrimp, let them thaw in a strainer with a drip tray in the fridge a day before you need them. Then wash them thoroughly and pat them dry before further use.
  2. Rinse fresh shrimp with cold water and pat dry.
  3. Cut the green part of the spring onions into fine strips lengthwise.
  4. Quarter the limes.
  5. Slice the red cabbage, white cabbage, and red onion into thin strips and put them in a medium-sized bowl. Pluck the coriander leaves from the stems, roughly chop them, and add to the bowl with the cabbage. Add yogurt, salt, and pepper as well, and stir everything well. Set aside.
  6. Next, peel and finely chop or press the garlic cloves and mix them with olive oil, chili, cumin, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and oregano to create a paste. Coat the shrimp in the paste, ensuring they’re evenly covered. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
  7. Meanwhile, in a small pan, lightly toast the corn tortillas on both sides without adding fat, so they’re warm but still bendable. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
  8. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan and fry the shrimp on each side for about 1-2 minutes until they’re no longer transparent and have curled up.
  9. Spread the tortillas on plates, top with the slaw, distribute 4 shrimps on each, and garnish with yogurt, coriander, spring onion, and lime juice.
  • Cook Time: 35 min

CRAVING MORE?

Follow along here & don’t forget to subscribe to my substack!