Cilantro lime chicken salad is fresh, zesty, and full of bold flavor. The combo of lime and cilantro gives it a little kick, and the chicken makes it satisfying enough for a full meal. Great for meal prep or a quick dinner on a warm night.
Ingredients List
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 limes, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup ranch or cilantro-lime dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Assemble the Salad
In a large glass bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
Add the Chicken
Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the salad mixture.
Finish with Dressing
Drizzle your choice of dressing over the salad and garnish with lime wedges.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add roasted corn for a sweet and smoky flavor.
2. Include cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
3. Sprinkle some feta cheese for a creamy texture.
4. Add black beans for extra protein and fiber.
5. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
What to Serve With This Meal
This cilantro lime chicken salad pairs beautifully with a side of warm corn tortillas or a bowl of tortilla soup. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a refreshing fruit salad or grilled vegetables.
Substitutions
1. Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner option.
2. Substitute baby spinach or mixed greens for romaine lettuce.
3. Try using Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice as an alternative dressing.
4. Replace avocado with sliced cucumber for a lower-calorie option.
Recipe Variations
1. Make it spicy by adding sliced jalapeños to the salad.
2. Turn it into a wrap using large flour tortillas.
3. Add quinoa to make it more filling and nutritious.
4. For a vegetarian version, use grilled tofu instead of chicken.
5. Use different citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit segments for an added zing.
