Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's ready in a flash? This Mexican Chicken Salad is your answer! Packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty lime dressing, it's the perfect healthy meal for a busy weeknight or a delightful lunch. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Get ready to discover one of the best recipes for a quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
- For the Lime Dressing:
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then shred with two forks.
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Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together lime juice, olive oil, water, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, and shredded chicken.
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Dress and Serve: Pour the lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with diced avocado and cotija cheese (if using). Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier salad, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or the dressing.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, shredded carrots, or jicama.
- For a heartier salad, add cooked quinoa or brown rice.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Salad: Add a jalapeño pepper to the dressing or sprinkle some chili flakes on top.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with cooked chickpeas or black beans for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
- Southwestern Twist: Incorporate roasted corn, diced poblano peppers, and a sprinkle of pepitas for a Southwestern flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy Mexican Chicken Salad recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It’s a simple yet delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!