Looking for a quick and delicious way to impress your friends at your next gathering? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Chicken Avocado Black Bean Salad! This Mexican-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrition, perfect for those warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a fresh, zesty salad that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your meal prep game with this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the cooked chicken into bite-sized cubes, ensuring even pieces for consistent flavor distribution.
- Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and improve digestibility.
- Cut the avocado into small, uniform cubes, being careful to remove the pit and skin completely. To prevent browning, toss avocado pieces with a small amount of lime juice.
- If using fresh corn, cook and cool it before adding to the salad. If using canned or frozen corn, ensure it is at room temperature.
- Finely dice the red onion to provide a sharp, crisp texture and balanced flavor to the salad.
- Chop fresh cilantro, removing tough stems and keeping leaves and tender stems for maximum herb flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, black beans, avocado, corn, and red onion.
- Add chopped cilantro and squeeze fresh lime juice over the ingredients.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing main dish or side salad, garnishing with additional cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the ingredients a day in advance. Just store the diced avocado in lime juice to prevent browning.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust the lime juice and seasoning to your taste—some prefer a little more zing!
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving will enhance the flavors and make it even more delicious.
- Serve with Style: Consider serving the salad in avocado halves or on a bed of greens for a stunning presentation.
- Make it a Meal: Pair this salad with tortilla chips or serve it over a bed of quinoa for a heartier option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg
