Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful lunch or light dinner that's both healthy and incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This Mexican Chicken Salad recipe is your answer. Forget boring chicken salad – we're adding a zesty Mexican twist with lime, cilantro, and a touch of spice to create a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a packed lunch, or even a light supper, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers big on taste without sacrificing health or simplicity.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (about 1.5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color, or a mix!)
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta, for a milder flavor)
- 1 avocado, diced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken: If you haven't already, cook your chicken breasts. Grilling, baking, or even using leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Once cooked, let it cool completely before shredding or dicing.
-
Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, red onion, cilantro, corn, bell pepper, cotija cheese (or feta), and diced avocado.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, jalapeño (if using), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated evenly.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad is delicious on its own, in tacos, or with tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Mexican Chicken Salad:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your liking. If you prefer a milder salad, omit it entirely, or use a smaller amount. For a spicier kick, add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Chicken Options: Use leftover roasted chicken for a smoky flavor, or grill your chicken for a chargrilled taste.
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will actually meld beautifully!
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your salad with other ingredients like black beans, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken Salad: For a creamier version, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
- Light and Healthy: Reduce the amount of olive oil and cheese for a lighter, healthier option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious and healthy Mexican Chicken Salad is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. It's versatile, adaptable, and absolutely delicious – a testament to the best recipes available. Enjoy!