Tired of the same old lunch routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This blackened chicken salad recipe is your new go-to for a quick and delicious meal that's packed with flavor. It's perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a satisfying snack. Get ready to elevate your salad game!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon blackening seasoning (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 1 cup mixed greens
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- ½ avocado, diced
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Homemade Blackening Seasoning (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and generously sprinkle with the blackening seasoning, ensuring both sides are coated evenly.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, and diced avocado.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
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Combine & Serve: Add the sliced or shredded chicken to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with crumbled cotija cheese and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackening seasoning to control the spice level. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit it entirely.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your salad with other ingredients such as red onion, bell peppers, black beans, or your favorite vegetables.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with different dressings, such as a cilantro-lime dressing or a creamy avocado dressing.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare the chicken and the dressing in advance to save time. Assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
This blackened chicken salad recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for those busy weeknights. The combination of smoky blackened chicken and fresh ingredients creates a delicious and healthy dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!