Gochujang-maple chicken tacos with sesame cabbage & lime mayo
Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Total: 55 mins | Serves: 2
for tacos, there’s something special about crafting them yourself, especially when you can whip up a mouthwatering batch of Gochujang-maple chicken tacos with sesame cabbage and lime mayo right at home. Unlike the pricey takeout options that can leave your wallet feeling light, this homemade version is not only more budget-friendly but also flavorful thanks to the unique combination of gochujang, maple syrup, and dark soy sauce.
Imagine tender, marinated chicken thighs, kissed with a hint of ginger and garlic, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. The addition of crunchy sesame cabbage adds a delightful texture, while the zesty lime mayo elevates each bite. You’ll be amazed at how these simple, storecupboard ingredients can transform into a vibrant meal that rivals any restaurant dish. So grab your apron and let’s create some unforgettable tacos that are sure to impress!
Gochujang-maple chicken tacos with sesame cabbage & lime mayo
Instructions
Step 1
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (or 180°C if you’re using a fan oven) or set your air fryer to 180°C. While that heats up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the soy sauce, gochujang, and maple syrup. Now, take a piece of fresh ginger and grate it into the bowl, followed by peeling and grating a couple of garlic cloves.
Once everything is in the bowl, give it a good stir until all the ingredients are well mixed. It’s time to add your chicken to the bowl and toss it in the marinade, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Transfer the chicken into a roasting tray or directly into the air fryer basket—try to avoid placing it on a grate if possible. Roast the chicken for about 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the syrup from sticking. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is sticky and cooked through, with a beautiful caramelized sheen.
Step 2
While your chicken is cooking, let’s focus on the fresh and crunchy cabbage slaw that will add a lovely texture to your tacos. Start by taking your cabbage and shredding it as finely as you can; if you have a mandoline, it will make this job a breeze! Once you’ve got it shredded, place the cabbage in a large mixing bowl.
Next, sprinkle in the sesame seeds and drizzle the vinegar over the cabbage. Add a generous pinch of salt, which will help to enhance all the flavors. Now, finely chop the fresh coriander and toss it into the bowl as well. Give everything a good mix, making sure the cabbage is well-coated in the dressing and the herbs are evenly distributed. You want the slaw to be vibrant and well-seasoned, ready to complement your flavorful chicken!
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the zest of half a lime. This will give your sauce a bright, zesty flavor. Next, squeeze the juice from that same lime half into the bowl and stir everything together until it's smooth and well mixed. Now, take the other half of the lime and cut it into wedges; set those aside for serving. This little touch will add a refreshing burst of lime right before you enjoy your tacos!
Step 4
Slice your cooked chicken into strips, making sure to get them nice and even for the perfect bite. Once sliced, toss the chicken in any leftover sauce from the air fryer or tray, giving it a good mix so that every piece is coated in that delicious flavor.
Next, it's time to warm up the tortillas. You can do this in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or heat them in a dry frying pan for just a couple of seconds on each side until they're pliable and slightly toasted.
While the tortillas are warming, finely slice your spring onions. Now you're ready to assemble! Take a tortilla, load it up with the sesame cabbage, add your saucy chicken strips, sprinkle on the spring onions, and finish with a few more sesame seeds for that extra crunch. Drizzle your lime mayo over the top and serve with lime wedges on the side — perfect for squeezing right before you take a big bite!
Nutrition Information
calories: 640 calories
fat: 32 grams fat
carbohydrate: 53 grams carbohydrates
protein: 30 grams protein
fiber: 10 grams fiber
sugar: 19 grams sugar
My Tip
To ensure your chicken thighs turn out perfectly sticky and flavorful, make sure to toss them in the marinade thoroughly and let them sit for at least 15 minutes before roasting. This extra time allows the gochujang and maple syrup to really penetrate the meat.
Leftovers
To store your Gochujang-maple chicken tacos, place the chicken and cabbage in separate airtight containers in the fridge; they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, keeping the cabbage crispy and fresh.
Make It Your Own
Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp and toss in a splash of lime juice for a refreshing twist. The shrimp will soak up the gochujang and maple flavors beautifully, making for a delightful taco experience!
