As I whipped up these Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos last week, the delightful aroma of crispy chicken mingled with the sweetness of tangy sauce transported me straight to my carefree childhood kitchen. These quick and easy tacos are not only a fun twist on a classic but also perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want to please everyone at the table. With their low-carb and gluten-free qualities, they serve as a wholesome alternative to the usual fast food routine. Just picture soft tortillas cradling juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli slaw, and a drizzle of creamy honey mustard, ready to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Are you ready to add a little sparkle to your taco night?
What Makes These Tacos So Special?
Quick Preparation: These Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos come together in just minutes, making them ideal for busy families or those who want a tasty meal without the fuss.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: The combination of crispy chicken and sweet honey mustard is a hit with children, ensuring that even picky eaters will clean their plates.
Low-Carb & Gluten-Free: Perfectly aligned with healthy eating, this recipe is both low in carbs and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences.
Customizable Options: Feel free to personalize your tacos by swapping in your favorite veggies or proteins, making it versatile for any palate. If you’re looking for more effortless meals, check out my Baked Breakfast Tacos or the comforting Brown Stew Chicken.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: With a delightful mix of textures and a sweet-tangy taste, these tacos guarantee satisfaction for everyone at the dinner table!
Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos Ingredients
For the Slaw
- Broccoli Slaw Mix – Adds a crunchy texture and nutrients; regular coleslaw can be used as a substitute.
- Keto Mayonnaise – Provides creaminess to the slaw; feel free to use regular mayonnaise if not following a keto diet.
- White Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; any mild vinegar works as an alternative.
- Sweetener (Besti Monk Fruit and Allulose) – Offers sweetness without the calories; traditional sugar is an option for non-keto versions.
- Pink Salt – Enhances flavors; feel free to substitute with regular salt.
- Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat; pre-ground pepper can work if necessary.
For the Chicken and Sauce
- Frozen Chicken Strips – The main protein that’s easy to prepare; grilled or rotisserie chicken makes a great alternative.
- Keto Honey Mustard Sauce – Delivers a flavorful punch; you can use homemade or store-bought regular honey mustard for non-keto diets.
- Keto Tortillas – Perfect for wrapping the taco; regular tortillas can be substituted if preferred.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli slaw mix, keto mayonnaise, white vinegar, sweetener, pink salt, and cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and the slaw crisp up.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Strips
While the slaw is chilling, cook the frozen chicken strips according to the package directions, usually baking at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to achieve golden-brown crispiness. Once cooked, let them cool for a minute before slicing them into manageable pieces for your tacos.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each keto tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they’re pliable and slightly toasted. Alternatively, you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-30 seconds. This step adds a delightful warmth to your Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos.
Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos
To assemble the tacos, lay out the warmed tortillas on a clean surface. Place two chicken strips in the center of each tortilla, and generously pile on the refrigerated broccoli slaw. Drizzle your desired amount of honey mustard sauce over the top, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the assembled Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos immediately while they are warm and fresh. You can add your favorite toppings, such as avocado or extra slaw, to personalize each taco. Gather your family around the table and enjoy this satisfying and kid-friendly meal together!
Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos Variations
Ready to make these delectable Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos even more exciting? Here are some delightful ways to customize them!
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Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken strips with grilled shrimp for a fresh twist. The seafood adds a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with honey mustard.
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Tofu Option: Use crispy tofu instead of chicken for a plant-based version. It soaks up flavors beautifully while being a great protein alternative.
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Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or shredded cabbage to your slaw for extra crunch and color. It not only enhances flavor but also makes your tacos more vibrant and nutritious.
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Heat It Up: Try adding a teaspoon of chili powder or smoked paprika to the honey mustard sauce. This extra kick brings a whole new level of excitement to each bite!
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Wrap It Differently: Switch to lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a low-carb, refreshing alternative. The crispness of the lettuce complements the fillings perfectly.
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Crispy Coating: Experiment by breading the chicken strips with crushed pork rinds for an extra crunchy texture. This keto-friendly option will surely make your tacos irresistible.
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Sweetness Levels: Adjust the honey mustard sauce’s sweetness by adding more sweetener or a splash of hot sauce for a tangy contrast. Each tweak can lead to a delightful new experience.
If you love vibrant flavors as much as I do, don’t forget to explore my Chicken Stroganoff Cozy or the delightful layers of Golden Greek Honey for other exciting ideas!
Expert Tips for Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos
- Thaw Chicken First: Make sure to thaw your frozen chicken strips beforehand for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
- Slaw Storage: Prepare the slaw ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge to maintain its crunch and freshness until serving.
- Tortilla Technique: Use a bit of oil in the skillet when warming tortillas to enhance their flavor and prevent sticking.
- Kid-Friendly Customization: Allow kids to assemble their own tacos with various toppings to make mealtime interactive and fun!
- Avoid Sogginess: Serve these Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos immediately after assembling to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
- Taste Test the Sauce: Adjust the honey mustard sauce to your family’s liking by adding more sweetener or a splash of vinegar for a zesty twist.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos
Fridge: Store any leftover assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, keep the slaw separate until ready to eat.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze assembled tacos as the tortillas may become soggy upon thawing. Instead, freeze cooked chicken strips and slaw separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken strips in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Serve with fresh tortillas for the best taste.
Preparation Tips: Consider making the slaw in advance and storing it in the fridge. This way, you can whip up your Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos in no time during busy weeknights!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the broccoli slaw mix up to 24 hours in advance; combine the slaw ingredients in a bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate for the freshest flavor. The chicken strips can also be pre-cooked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave, warm the tortillas as directed, and assemble with the slaw and honey mustard sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious taco night with minimal fuss, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
What to Serve with Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos
These Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos are a fantastic centerpiece for a cozy meal, and pairing them with complementary sides will create a feast everyone will adore.
- Refreshing Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a refreshing touch that balances the sweet and tangy flavors of the tacos.
- Zesty Mixed Berry Salad: A bright, fruity salad with a hint of citrus uplifts the meal and adds a burst of freshness to each bite.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch of sweet potato fries create a delightful contrast to the honey mustard chicken.
- Flavorful Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish elevates the meal’s overall flavor and provides a comforting, earthy base alongside the tacos.
- Tangy Coleslaw: Complement the broccoli slaw with a classic, tangy coleslaw for an extra crunch and a pop of color on your plate.
- Chilled Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink refreshes the palate, making it the perfect accompaniment for the rich flavors in these tacos.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: This dip lends a smooth, creamy texture that melds beautifully with the crunchy chicken and fresh slaw.
- Fruity Dessert Bars: End the meal on a sweet note with light, fruity dessert bars that echo the sweetness of the honey mustard sauce.
- Warm Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for those who crave a little extra crunch and soak up any drizzles of honey mustard sauce left behind.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best broccoli slaw mix?
Absolutely! When choosing broccoli slaw mix, look for vibrant green colors without any dark spots or wilting. Fresh slaw should feel crisp and firm to the touch. If you can, get it from the refrigerated section for the best quality.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover assembled Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, to keep the tortillas crisp, I recommend keeping the slaw separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Can I freeze the Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos?
Not really! It’s best not to freeze assembled tacos because the tortillas can become soggy when thawed. Instead, you can freeze the cooked chicken strips and slaw separately for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving—and they’ll taste fresh as ever!
What if my tortillas tear when I warm them?
Oh no! If your tortillas tear, it might be due to them being too cold or too dry. To fix this, try warming them just until they’re pliable—about 30 seconds in a skillet or 15-30 seconds in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel. If they’re still breaking, use fresh tortillas.
Are these tacos suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes, absolutely! With the right choice of keto tortillas or gluten-free alternatives, these Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos fit perfectly into a gluten-free diet. Just double-check the labels on whichever tortillas you plan to use!
Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Certainly! I often make the slaw a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and you’ll have a delightful crunch when it’s time to assemble your tacos!
Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos: Easy Family-Friendly Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli slaw mix, keto mayonnaise, white vinegar, sweetener, pink salt, and cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and the slaw crisp up.
- While the slaw is chilling, cook the frozen chicken strips according to the package directions, usually baking at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to achieve golden-brown crispiness. Once cooked, let them cool for a minute before slicing them into manageable pieces for your tacos.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each keto tortilla in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until they're pliable and slightly toasted. Alternatively, you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15-30 seconds.
- To assemble the tacos, lay out the warmed tortillas on a clean surface. Place two chicken strips in the center of each tortilla, and generously pile on the refrigerated broccoli slaw. Drizzle your desired amount of honey mustard sauce over the top.
- Serve the assembled Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos immediately while they are warm and fresh. You can add your favorite toppings, such as avocado or extra slaw, to personalize each taco.
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