Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad
Introduction
Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is a delicious and colorful dish that combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The vibrant vegetables and juicy chicken come together to make a filling meal that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is not only tasty but also healthy. It includes plenty of vegetables, lean protein, and a creamy dressing that’s low in carbs. Making it yourself means you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights!
How to Make Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad
Making Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is simple! You will grill chicken and chop some fresh veggies. Then, mix everything with a creamy dressing for a tasty meal. Follow these steps to make your salad.
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp chipotle powder
Directions:
- Preheat the grill or stovetop pan over medium heat.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for about 6 minutes per side until cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken cooks, chop the bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lime juice and chipotle powder until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped veggies and sliced chicken. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately with optional garnishes like lime wedges or fresh cilantro.
How to Serve Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad
Serve your Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad in big bowls. You can add lime wedges and fresh cilantro on top for extra flavor. This salad is also great as a filling for wraps or tacos!
How to Store Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best eaten within 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if you want the salad to stay fresh longer.
Tips to Make Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad
- Use a grill for a smoky flavor or a stovetop pan if that’s easier for you.
- Feel free to add more veggies or beans for extra nutrition!
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding more lime juice or chipotle powder if you enjoy spicy food.
Variation
You can easily change this salad by adding avocado, corn, or black beans. Use different proteins like shrimp or steak if you prefer.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Leftover chicken works perfectly for this salad. Just slice it and mix it with the veggies and dressing.Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivity.Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance but add the dressing just before serving for the freshest taste.
Enjoy making and sharing this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad! It’s a fun and tasty meal for everyone.