This Chicken Chopped Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, juicy chicken, and yummy dressing. It’s healthy, crunchy, and super satisfying!
I love to top mine with a sprinkle of cheese for an extra treat. Plus, it’s so quick to make, perfect for those busy days when you need a tasty meal fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Grilled chicken breasts give the salad a great flavor and protein boost. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works well, too. Just pull off the skin and dice it up.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine provides a nice crunch, but you can swap it for other greens like spinach or mixed greens if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different greens can alter the flavor slightly.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and color. You can substitute it with yellow or orange bell peppers, or even diced cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
Corn: Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned corn, they all work well. If you want a smoky flavor, grilled corn is an excellent option. Canned corn can be a bit salty, so rinse it before adding it to your salad.
Avocado: Creamy and healthy, avocado is a must for this salad. If you’re allergic or just don’t have it, try using diced mango for a fruity flavor or a little extra cheese for creaminess.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! The key is to ensure the chicken stays juicy while getting that nice char.
- Start with even-sized breasts for uniform cooking. If they’re thick, consider butterflying them.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes off the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute, so the chicken stays moist when you dice it.
How to Make Chicken Chopped Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, diced
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Chopped Salad takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus around 12-16 minutes to grill the chicken. You’ll spend some time chopping vegetables and tossing everything together, making it a quick, healthy meal that’s ready in under half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by heating up your grill over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side. Check that they are fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Once they’re done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced red bell pepper, corn, sliced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Make sure to toss it together to mix the colors and flavors.
3. Add the Chicken and Toppings:
Next, sprinkle the diced grilled chicken over the colorful salad mixture. Then, add the pumpkin seeds and shredded cheese on top to give it that extra crunch and flavor.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the juice of 2 limes, olive oil, salt, pepper, and the taco seasoning if you’re using it. Whisk the ingredients together or shake the jar until it’s well mixed. This dressing will add a zesty kick to your salad!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the entire salad and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly. Be careful not to mash the avocado while mixing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Chopped Salad immediately, garnishing it with some extra lime wedges if you like. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious meal!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Grilled Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor. Just shred or dice the chicken after removing the skin, and add it directly to your salad. It’s a fantastic time-saver!
What Can I Substitute for the Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or want a different texture, try using diced cucumber or a handful of sliced radishes for a crunchy element. You could also add some sliced olives for a briny kick!
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess. When ready to eat, re-toss with the dressing for the best flavor!
Can This Salad Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine them and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp!
