When summer arrives, I start looking for light yet flavorful dishes. This Mexican chicken salad quickly became a favorite. It’s full of color, has just the right amount of seasoning, and offers a mix of textures.
This recipe is great because it’s so versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep, BBQs, or a quick lunch. The best part? It’s ready fast, thanks to a rotisserie chicken and a zesty dressing.
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Why This Mexican-Style Chicken Salad Will Become Your Go-To Recipe
This mexican chicken salad recipe is perfect for a satisfying lunch. It has tender chicken, crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing. It’s loved by everyone who tries it.
Key Benefits
Each serving of this mexican chicken salad has 28g of protein. It’s a filling meal that gives you lots of energy. Plus, it only has 363 calories per 1.5 cup serving, making it a healthy choice.
Time-Saving Features
This salad dressing recipe is super easy to make. You can prepare it ahead of time for quick meals. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, so you always have a healthy option ready.
Versatility in Serving
You can serve this chicken marinade in many ways. Try it on a sandwich or as a standalone salad. It’s easy to adjust to fit different diets, making it great for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Blend
To make the ultimate Mexican chicken salad, you need the right ingredients. Start with shredded chicken, whether from a rotisserie or leftover. Add frozen or canned mixed veggies like corn, peas, and carrots for color and crunch.
The seasoning blend is key, with garlic salt and black pepper. Mayonnaise is the creamy glue that holds it all together. For a richer taste, add sweet corn, diced bell peppers, red onion, fresh cilantro, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and avocado. These extras make the salad more flavorful and interesting.
The dressing is a zesty mix of Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, and taco seasoning. This combo brings a bold Mexican flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. You can also add a can of black beans for extra fiber and nutrients.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded Chicken | 1 lb (454g) |
| Frozen Corn | 1/2 cup (85g) |
| Black Beans | 1 cup (130g) |
| Cherry Tomatoes | A handful (100g) |
| Red Bell Pepper | 1 whole (180g) |
| Avocado | 1/2 (49g) |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1/2 cup (56g) |
| Taco Seasoning | 2 tbsp |
| Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing | 1/3 cup |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a delicious Mexican chicken salad. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect Mexican chicken salad, you’ll need some key tools and equipment. We’ll cover the must-haves and some extra tools that can help a lot.
Basic Equipment List
- A large mixing bowl for combining the salad ingredients
- A small mixing bowl for preparing the zesty cilantro lime dressing
- Utensils for mixing, tossing, and shredding the salad components
- A sharp knife for dicing and slicing the fresh vegetables
- A cutting board for prepping the ingredients
Optional Tools for Convenience
While you can make this salad with just the basics, some tools can make it easier:
- A food processor or blender for quickly blending the dressing ingredients
- An Instant Pot or pressure cooker for effortlessly cooking the chicken if not using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken
With these kitchen tools and mixing bowls, you’re ready to make a tasty Mexican chicken salad.
Step-by-Step mexican chicken salad recipe Guide
Make a tasty Mexican chicken salad with this simple guide. Start by shredding cooked chicken and putting it in a big bowl. Add mixed veggies like diced potatoes, carrots, peas, and corn. If using frozen veggies, just heat them as the package says.
Then, mix the dressing. Use mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, and taco seasoning in a bowl. Mix it well until it’s smooth. Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggies, then gently mix until everything is coated.
Add shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado for extra flavor and texture. Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl. Chill the mexican chicken salad in the fridge for at least an hour. This lets the flavors blend and the salad get cool and refreshing.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 422 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Total Fat | 27g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 93mg |
| Sodium | 1054mg |
| Potassium | 677mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Net Carbs | 11g |
Enjoy this mexican chicken salad recipe in many ways. Try it on crispy tostadas, in fresh bread or croissant sandwiches, or with cooked pasta. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love!
Making the Zesty Cilantro Lime Dressing
Make your Mexican chicken salad even better with a zesty cilantro lime vinaigrette. This dressing complements the bold flavors and fresh ingredients perfectly. Follow these easy steps to make a creamy and tangy dressing that will excite your taste buds.
Ingredient Proportions
In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt (2% or higher), 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, the juice of one small lime, and 1 tablespoon of prepared taco seasoning. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Mixing Techniques
For a cilantro lime vinaigrette variation, blend 1 cup of fresh cilantro, the juice of one lime, 1/3 cup of olive oil, and your favorite seasonings (like garlic powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper) in a food processor or blender until well combined.
Getting the dressing just right is all about tasting and adjusting. Start with the basic amounts and add more of anything to get the flavor you want. Both the creamy yogurt-based dressing and the fresh, zesty vinaigrette are great choices for your salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Preparation
To make the best Mexican-style chicken salad, start with great chicken. You can use a slow-cooked chicken marinade or a rotisserie chicken. The way you prepare the chicken really matters.
Slow-Cooked Chicken Marinade
For tender chicken marinade, cook chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Let it cook on low for 3-4 hours until it’s 165°F inside. This method keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Rotisserie Chicken Convenience
For a quick choice, get a rotisserie chicken from the store. Rotisserie chickens are already cooked and seasoned. Just shred or dice it for your salad.
Stovetop Chicken Preparation
For stovetop cooking, put chicken breasts in a saucepan with chicken broth or water. Add a bouillon cube if using water. Boil, then simmer for 25 minutes until it’s 165°F inside. Shred or dice it for your salad.
Regardless of how you cook it, let the chicken rest before shredding. This makes your salad moist and tasty.
Customization Options and Add-ins
This Mexican-inspired chicken salad is very versatile. You can change it to fit your taste and dietary needs. Start by adjusting the spice level. Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for more heat. Or, reduce the taco seasoning for less spice.
Vegetable Variations
For a fresh twist, use grilled or roasted corn instead of canned. The roasted corn adds a sweet flavor. You can also add diced bell peppers or shredded cabbage for more texture and nutrition.
Protein Alternatives
While the recipe uses shredded rotisserie chicken, you can try other proteins. Use canned tortilla strips or grilled steak for a bigger meal. Or, swap in black beans or tofu for a vegetarian choice.
Spice Level Adjustments
Change the spice level by adjusting the taco seasoning or hot sauce. Start with a small amount and add more until it’s just right. You can also add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more heat.
This Mexican chicken salad is yours to customize. Try different ingredients and flavors to find your favorite mix.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Make your Mexican chicken salad even better with creative serving ideas. Try it on tostadas with zesty salsa for a tasty snack or light meal. Or, place it between bread slices or in a soft tortilla for a quick sandwich.
For a healthier option, serve it in lettuce wraps or on fresh greens. Add some extra cilantro, a lime wedge, or cotija cheese for a pop of color and flavor.
Offer the salad as an appetizer with tortilla chips for dipping. This recipe is perfect for any event, from casual get-togethers to fancy dinner parties.
Whether you serve it on tostadas, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich, the salad is sure to wow. Try different ways to present it and make your meals more exciting.
Storage Tips and Meal Prep Guidelines
The Mexican chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag in your fridge for up to four days. To keep it fresh, prepare the salad without the avocado. Add it just before serving to prevent browning.
Freezing the salad for up to three months is also an option. However, the texture might change a bit when thawed. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh as soon as you can. This salad’s long-lasting freshness makes it perfect for meal prep.
Whether for lunch or dinner, this recipe’s storage makes it easy to enjoy all week. Follow these simple tips to keep your Mexican chicken salad fresh. This way, you can enjoy its zesty flavors whenever you want.