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Zesty Tex-Mex Chicken Chopped Salad

Zesty Tex-Mex Chicken Chopped Salad
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1/2 red onion diced
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Chef’s knife
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 salad serving bowl
  • 1 Grill pan or skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken breasts with the spice mixture and place them on the grill pan or skillet.
  4. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest.
  5. While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad. In a large salad serving bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, and garlic powder to create the dressing.
  7. Dice the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the salad.
  8. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined.
  9. Finally, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top and serve immediately.

Notes

Storage & Reheating:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to reheat the chicken, do so gently in the microwave or in a pan on low heat to preserve its moisture.
Variations:
- Substitute grilled shrimp or steak for the chicken for a different protein option.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and spice.
- Use a different cheese such as feta or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
- Make it vegan by omitting the chicken and cheese, and replace the honey with agave syrup.