Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad with Cilantro-Lime Dressing
Imagine a warm, sunny day with the scent of fresh cilantro and zesty lime filling the air. The crisp crunch of chopped veggies and the smoky, perfectly grilled chicken come together in a vibrant, refreshing salad that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
This Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is the perfect meal for those who crave bold flavors with a healthy twist. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for a Vibrant Salad
To make this salad truly come alive, we’re using a mix of fresh ingredients that pack a punch. The combination of crunchy vegetables, grilled chicken, and a tangy cilantro-lime dressing makes each bite an experience. Here’s what you’ll need:
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- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for the dressing)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
A Healthier Twist: Grilled Chicken
The grilled chicken is the star of this dish, providing a smoky flavor that balances out the fresh veggies and tangy dressing. For a healthier twist, we recommend using skinless chicken breasts, seasoned with a mix of chili powder, cumin, and a dash of salt and pepper.
You can also use a grilled chicken breast cooked in an air fryer for a quick and healthier option.
Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to let the flavors really soak in, and for added convenience, you can cook the chicken ahead of time!
Fresh, Crunchy, and Full of Flavor
When it comes to the veggies, the more color, the better! The red and yellow bell peppers, cucumbers, and corn give this salad its beautiful pop of color, while the black beans add an extra layer of texture and protein. The avocado brings a creamy richness that’s simply irresistible.
Adding a bit of finely chopped red onion provides a mild bite, while fresh cilantro delivers that signature Tex-Mex flavor. The best part? You can always customize this salad with extra toppings like chopped jalapeños for heat or cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
The Perfect Cilantro-Lime Dressing
No Tex-Mex salad is complete without a cilantro-lime dressing that ties all the flavors together. To make it, simply whisk together:
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For an even creamier dressing, consider adding Greek yogurt instead of oil, or for an extra zing, blend in a handful of avocado.
How to Assemble the Salad
Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to assemble your salad! Here’s how:
- Grill the chicken: Season and grill the chicken until it’s cooked through and slightly charred.
- Chop the veggies: Dice the peppers, cucumber, avocado, and onion, and toss them together with the corn and black beans in a large bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
- Assemble the salad: Slice the grilled chicken and layer it over the chopped veggies. Drizzle the cilantro-lime dressing on top, and garnish with fresh cilantro.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Not only is this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad bursting with fresh, bold flavors, but it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome meal.
The combination of lean protein, fiber, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables makes it a perfect dish for anyone looking for a satisfying yet light meal.
This salad is also incredibly versatile. If you’re following a specific diet, you can easily make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian by swapping the chicken for grilled tofu or blackened portobello mushrooms.
You can also customize the dressing to your preference, whether you want it creamy or light.
A Meal for Any Occasion
Whether you're serving it for a summer barbecue, packing it for a healthy lunch, or enjoying it as a refreshing dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit. With its perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and zesty elements, it’s a dish that’s both filling and refreshing.
The Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad with Cilantro-Lime Dressing is more than just a salad—it’s an experience. From the smoky, grilled chicken to the fresh, vibrant vegetables and tangy dressing, each bite offers something new and exciting.
Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, which means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home in no time.
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