Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into a vibrant culinary adventure! This Spicy Mexican Chicken Salad isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that brings the heart of Mexico right to your dinner table. Imagine a dish that combines tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, zesty lime, and a perfect blend of spices that will transport you to a sun-drenched Mexican marketplace with every single bite. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Rinse and drain the black beans, and cook the corn if it's not already cooked. Dice the red bell pepper and avocado, and chop the cilantro.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, cooked corn, diced red bell pepper, and diced avocado. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Pour the lime juice mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Carefully fold the dressing into the salad, ensuring that all ingredients are well coated.
- Once everything is combined, add the chopped cilantro and give the salad one final gentle toss to incorporate.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step enhances the taste of the salad.
- Serve the spicy Mexican chicken salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy it as a refreshing main dish or a side salad!
Tips
- Use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor
- For maximum taste, let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to marinate
- Customize the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if you want an extra kick
- For a protein boost, consider adding quinoa or extra black beans
- Keep the avocado diced just before serving to prevent browning
- Use fresh lime juice for the most vibrant, bright flavor
- For a complete meal, serve with tortilla chips or over a bed of crisp lettuce
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
