Description
A bold and refreshing Chipotle Lime Chicken Salad packed with smoky spice, bright citrus, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables. This protein-rich salad is vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon chipotle powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup corn (canned or cooked)
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chipotle powder, cumin, garlic powder, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently.
- Top the salad with sliced chicken and arrange avocado slices on top.
- Sprinkle feta cheese if using.
- Drizzle with additional lime juice or olive oil if desired, toss lightly, and serve immediately.
Notes
Adjust chipotle powder to control spice level.
Grilling the chicken adds extra smoky flavor.
Store salad components separately for best freshness.
Add tortilla strips, pepitas, black beans, or quinoa for extra texture and heartiness.
Squeeze extra lime juice over avocado to prevent browning.
For a dairy-free version, omit feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg