This Easy Chicken Chopped Salad is colorful and filled with yummy ingredients like tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and fresh greens! It’s perfect for a light meal.
I love how quick it is to make—just toss everything together and enjoy. Plus, it’s like a party in a bowl, and who doesn’t like that? 🥗🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for this salad since it’s tender and cooks quickly. You can substitute with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option, or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Romaine Lettuce: This gives a nice crunch, but you can easily swap it for spinach, kale, or any leafy greens you prefer. Just remember that heartier greens may need a little more dressing.
Avocado: Adds creaminess, but if you’re allergic or don’t like it, you can use diced cucumbers or even Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
Corn Kernels: Fresh corn is great when in season, but you can use canned corn if you’re in a pinch, or black beans for extra protein and a different flavor.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly for My Salad?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well. The more flavor you add, the better the outcome!
- Preheat the grill or skillet to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and keep it juicy.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let your chicken rest for a few minutes before chopping. This stops the juices from running out.
Following these tips will help you achieve juicy and flavorful chicken for your salad!
Easy Chicken Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken. So, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this tasty spice mixture.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and juices run clear. Once done, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting.
3. Chop the Veggies:
While the chicken is cooling, chop your romaine lettuce, corn, red bell pepper, green onions, and jalapeño (if using) into small pieces. In a large salad bowl, add all these fresh veggies together.
4. Add the Chicken:
Once the chicken has rested, chop it into bite-size pieces and add it to the salad bowl filled with veggies. Then, gently add the sliced avocado and sprinkle the pumpkin seeds on top for an extra crunch.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and smooth. If you like, you can add some fresh chopped cilantro to the dressing for added flavor!
6. Combine and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to mix well. Serve your salad with lime wedges on the side for some added zing. Enjoy this fresh, flavorful, and healthy chicken chopped salad!
Bon appétit!
FAQ About Easy Chicken Chopped Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this salad. Just chop it up and mix it in with the other ingredients for a quick meal!
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. However, it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.
What If I Don’t Have Certain Vegetables?
No problem! This salad is versatile. Feel free to substitute with other veggies you have on hand, like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even black beans. The key is to keep the mix colorful and crunchy!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, use a dairy-free yogurt for the dressing, and omit the honey or replace it with agave syrup. Enjoy your delicious vegan version!
