Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and quick to make? Then look no further! This spicy chicken salad recipe is a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. It's packed with flavor, offers a satisfying kick, and is surprisingly simple to whip up, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it with two forks.
Step 2: Assembling the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and diced avocado.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt).
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and gently toss to combine.
Step 3: Serving and Enjoying
- Serve the spicy chicken salad immediately or chill for later. It's delicious on its own, in lettuce wraps, or served with tortilla chips for a fun twist.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Chicken Alternatives: Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Make it Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
Variations:
- Tropical Twist: Add some mango and pineapple chunks for a refreshing, sweet and spicy combination.
- Creamy Avocado: Increase the avocado to make the salad creamier.
- Black Bean Boost: Add a can of black beans for extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using mayonnaise and is approximate; nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This spicy chicken salad recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick dinner or a healthy lunch. Enjoy this easy recipe and discover the joy of homemade cooking! It’s a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. This healthy meal is sure to become a family favorite!