Are you ready to inject some serious flavor into your midday meal? Forget those bland, boring salads! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a recipe for an Amazing Chipotle Chicken Salad that’s smoky, zesty, and packed with healthy goodness.
An Amazing Chipotle Chicken Salad Bowl
an Amazing Chipotle Chicken Salad that's smoky, zesty, and packed with healthy goodness
Equipment
- 1 Pan Required to cook the Chicken Breast
- 1 Bowl To mix up all the ingredients
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1-2 Canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce finely chopped (start with 1 for less heat, add more to taste)
- 1 tbsp Adobo sauce from the can of chipotle peppers
- 1 tsp Lime juice
- 1.2 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1 cup Corn kernels fresh or frozen, thawed
- 1 cup Black beans rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup Chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup Chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Chopped red bell peppers
- 1 tbsp Chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt for a lighter option
Instructions
- Cook the Chipotle Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and season with the chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, 1 teaspoon of lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Cut up the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice or dice it up
- Combine the Goodness: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chipotle chicken, corn kernels, black beans, chopped red onion, diced tomatoes and chopped red bell pepper.
- Add the Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
- Make the Creamy Chipotle Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a great alternative), 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice (to taste), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust lime juice or seasoning as needed, add a little bit of the adobo sauce for that kick.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the creamy chipotle dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve & Enjoy! Serve your Amazing Chipotle Chicken Salad on its own, over a bed of your favorite greens, in lettuce wraps, or topped with sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
Notes
Why This Chipotle Chicken Salad Bowl is a Game Changer:
- Bold & Smoky Flavor: Chipotle peppers bring a unique depth and a touch of heat that elevates this salad beyond the ordinary but be careful they can have a kick.
- Lean Protein Powerhouse: Chicken is what we are using today but shrimp, beef or even tofu are all great protein alternatives to keep you full and support your active lifestyle.
- Loaded with Freshness: Crisp vegetables add vital nutrients and freshness, fiber, and satisfying crunch.
- Versatile & Customizable: Enjoy it on its own, in a lettuce wrap, over greens, or add some rice or quinoa.
- Easy to Make: With a few simple steps, you can have this flavor-packed salad ready in no time.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to your preferred level of heat. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t easily take it away!
- Grill the Chicken: For an extra layer of smoky flavor, grill your chicken instead of pan-frying. Marinate it with the chipotle mixture beforehand for even more intense taste.
- Add Some Crunch: Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds),chopped walnuts or tortilla strips can add a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Corn is Best: If corn is in season, using fresh grilled or roasted corn kernels will elevate the flavor even further.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Use a vegan mayonnaise alternative to keep this salad dairy-free.
- Meal Prep Hero: This salad is perfect for meal prepping! It holds up well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
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