Easy Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe

Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the bold tastes of Mexican cuisine with the freshness of a hearty salad. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep, this salad is packed with protein, veggies, and a zesty dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re a fan of spicy flavors or just looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal, this recipe is a must-try. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad at home.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools:

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl (for dressing)
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grill or skillet (for cooking chicken)
• Tongs

What You Need to Prepare Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad ?

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or roasted)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup tortilla strips (for crunch)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

1. Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into small pieces.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, and finely chop the red onion.
3. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Add the chopped chicken and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Top the salad with tortilla strips for added crunch.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or extra black beans.
• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the corn and tortilla strips, and add more avocado.
• Creamy Dressing: Mix in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamier texture.

Cooking Notes

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before cooking.
• If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
• To prevent the avocado from browning, add it just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the salad as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
• Pair it with warm tortillas or a side of Mexican rice.
• Add a dollop of guacamole or salsa for extra flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Use a sharp knife to ensure even chopping of ingredients.
• Customize the salad with your favorite Tex Mex ingredients, such as bell peppers or olives.
• Double the dressing recipe and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Tips for the Best Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

1. Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
2. Use fresh lime juice for the dressing for the best taste.
3. Add the tortilla strips just before serving to keep them crunchy.
4. Don’t overdress the salad start with half the dressing and add more as needed.

Best similar recipes you may also like :

• Easy Tomato Cucumber and Onion Salad Recipe
• Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe
• Chicken Salad Chick Recipe
• Creamy Deviled Egg Pasta Salad Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the dressing and tortilla strips separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunch.

2. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, steak, or even grilled tofu work well in this salad.

3. How long does the dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips.

Conclusion

Tex Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a dinner party, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Tex Mex cuisine at home!

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