Tex-Mex Chicken Salad

Name: Tex-Mex Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound); 1 cup diced bell peppers (mix of red, yellow, and green); 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tablespoons); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups mixed greens (romaine or spinach)

Published: April 20, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Tex-Mex Chicken Salad is quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep throughout the week
Bursting with fresh flavors, it’s visually appealing with its colorful ingredients
Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, it can be enjoyed on its own or as a filling in wraps

I once served this dish at a potluck, and let me tell you, the clean-up was worth it when everyone asked for the recipe!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious BBQ beef tacos.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Look for plump, fresh chicken breasts; they cook evenly and keep the salad juicy.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for sweetness and crunch; red, yellow, or green work beautifully.
Red Onion: Choose a firm red onion; it adds sharpness and brightness that balance out the flavors.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro elevates the salad with its vibrant flavor; chop it finely for even distribution.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds zing; don’t settle for bottled—your taste buds deserve better!
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances richness; drizzle generously to tie all ingredients together.
Chili Powder: A hint of chili powder gives warmth without overwhelming heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; season generously but taste as you go.
Mixed Greens: Use any greens like romaine or spinach as your base; they add freshness and volume to the salad. For more inspiration, check out this Strawberry and Spinach Salad recipe.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan recipe.

Chop Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, chop bell peppers and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Toss them into a large mixing bowl along with chopped cilantro.

Create Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil until combined. Add salt and pepper to taste; this vibrant dressing will brighten everything up!

Shred & Combine Chicken: Once cooked, let chicken rest for five minutes before shredding using two forks. Combine shredded chicken with chopped veggies in the bowl.

Toss It All Together: Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until everything is coated evenly. Serve over mixed greens or enjoy as-is.

This Tex-Mex Chicken Salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience! Each bite offers delightful crunches paired with tender chicken that’ll make you smile from ear to ear. hearty loaded baked potato.

Enjoy your culinary adventure!

You Must Know

This Tex-Mex Chicken Salad combines vibrant flavors with a crunchy texture, making it a delightful meal
Perfect for warm days, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Enjoy the zesty aroma that fills your kitchen as you whip up this refreshing dish

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling the chicken first, allowing it to rest while you chop veggies and prepare the dressing. This sequence ensures juicy chicken and fresh ingredients.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in black beans or corn for a heartier salad. You can also add avocado for creaminess or jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, but fresh is always best!

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your chicken is evenly cooked by pounding it to uniform thickness before grilling
Use fresh lime juice to enhance flavors without overpowering them
Don’t skip resting the chicken; it keeps it juicy and tender!

My friend once declared this Tex-Mex Chicken Salad as “the best thing since sliced bread,” which made my day! We enjoyed it at a summer barbecue, and everyone kept asking for seconds.

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for this Tex-Mex Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

What can I substitute for dressing?

Greek yogurt mixed with salsa makes a great, healthier alternative to ranch dressing.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad stays fresh in the fridge and is perfect for lunch throughout the week!

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