Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This Cilantro Lime Chicken Chop Salad isn't just another recipe—it's a vibrant Mexican-inspired masterpiece that promises to tantalize your senses with every single bite. Imagine tender, perfectly grilled chicken nestled on a bed of fresh mixed greens, bursting with zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and creamy avocado—a dish so delicious, it'll become your new obsession in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 4 cups mixed greens
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning both sides with salt and pepper. If chicken breasts are thick, butterfly or pound them to ensure even cooking.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle with olive oil and cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While chicken is cooking, prepare the lime marinade by mixing fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil in a small bowl.
- Once chicken is cooked, remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Then slice or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large salad bowl, layer mixed greens as the base. Top with cooked corn, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad ingredients.
- Drizzle the prepared cilantro-lime marinade over the entire salad.
- Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating and distribution of flavors.
- Serve immediately while chicken is still warm, garnishing with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Marinade Magic: Let the chicken sit in the lime-cilantro marinade for 15-30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor infusion.
- Avocado Hack: Dice avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain that fresh, vibrant look.
- Texture Variety: Slightly char the corn for an added smoky dimension to your salad.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prep ingredients separately and combine just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and crispness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 229kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
