Description
This Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal perfect for any day of the week. Loaded with protein-rich chicken, fiber-packed black beans, sweet corn, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime-cumin dressing, this salad combines vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal lunch or light dinner option that requires no cooking, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, diced red onion, and shredded lettuce. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until well emulsified. This will create a tangy and flavorful dressing that ties the salad together.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the salad as a fresh garnish. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and fresh texture.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or leftover grilled chicken for convenience.
- Fresh corn can be used instead of canned or frozen for added sweetness.
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Avocado should be added just before serving to prevent browning.
- This salad can be made ahead by keeping the dressing separate until ready to serve.
