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.