Are you ready to spice up your mealtime with a burst of flavor and nutrition? Meet the Chipotle Chicken Dense Bean Salad—a vibrant Mexican-inspired dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of taste! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad that combines tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, and creamy avocado, all drizzled with a smoky chipotle dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Dive into our article to discover how to make this delicious dish that promises to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the cooked chicken is shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained and rinsed black beans, and drained corn. Stir gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and diced avocado to the bowl. These will add a fresh crunch and creaminess to your salad.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the lime juice, chipotle in adobo sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss the salad, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Finally, add the chopped cilantro to the salad and give it one last gentle toss to incorporate the herbs.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Serve the Chipotle Chicken Dense Bean Salad in individual bowls or on a large serving platter. Enjoy it fresh as a main dish or a side!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Shred the chicken and chop the vegetables the night before, so you can quickly assemble the salad when you're ready to eat.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced tomatoes, corn, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste!
- Perfectly Ripe Avocado: Make sure your avocado is perfectly ripe for the best texture. It should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
- Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the salad on its own, or serve it over a bed of greens for added freshness. It also pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips for a crunchy side!
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the avocado may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
