Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into a flavor explosion that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! This Chicken Taco Salad with Creamy Ranch is not just a salad - it's a culinary adventure that combines the zesty spirit of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of a hearty, satisfying dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, summer gatherings, or when you're craving something fresh and exciting, this recipe promises to be your new go-to meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the Chicken Taco Salad. Ensure that the cooked chicken is shredded and the vegetables are washed and prepped. This will make the assembly process smoother.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and the shredded chicken. Toss them together gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, rinsed black beans, and cooked corn to the bowl. These ingredients will add color, flavor, and texture to your salad.
- Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the salad mixture. You can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or a Mexican blend.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad. Use about half a cup, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preference. Toss the salad gently to ensure that the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overdo it, as the ranch dressing may already contain some salt.
- Once everything is well mixed, transfer the salad to serving bowls or a large platter. This can be done immediately or you can chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before serving.
- Just before serving, slice the avocado and arrange the slices on top of the salad for a fresh and creamy finish.
- Enjoy your Chicken Taco Salad with Creamy Ranch immediately, or serve it with tortilla chips on the side for added crunch!
Tips
- Meal Prep Magic: Cook your chicken and chop vegetables in advance to make assembly a breeze. Rotisserie chicken works great as a time-saving option!
- Temperature Matters: Serve the salad slightly chilled for the most refreshing experience. Keep ingredients cold before mixing for the best texture.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences. Try grilled chicken, add jalapeños for heat, or use different types of beans.
- Dressing Hack: For a lighter version, mix the ranch with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while maintaining creamy deliciousness.
- Crunch Factor: Add tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
- Make It Ahead: This salad can be prepped in advance - just keep the dressing and avocado separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
- Protein Power: For extra protein, consider adding grilled shrimp or black beans as alternative protein sources.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 472kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
