Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a vibrant and delicious salad that offers a burst of flavor in every bite, you’re going to love this Tex-Mex Chicken Chopped Salad! Packed with fresh vegetables, zesty dressing, and tender chicken, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The crunch of tortilla chips combined with the creaminess of avocado and the richness of cheese makes every forkful irresistible. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful salad in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 5 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed (for topping)
- 1 cup cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend), shredded
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup salsa
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by gathering a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and the tender diced chicken. This will form a hearty base for your salad.
- Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, rinsed black beans, diced red bell pepper, creamy avocado, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro. Each ingredient adds its unique flavor and texture.
- Using gentle hands, toss all the ingredients together until they’re well mixed. The colors should be vibrant, creating a beautiful palette that’s just begging to be eaten.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing and salsa over the salad. Toss again until everything is evenly coated, allowing the dressing to enhance the flavors of the veggies and the chicken.
- For the finishing touch, sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips and shredded cheese on top just before serving. This adds the perfect crunch and helps to make this salad a delightful treat.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite ingredients, such as jalapeños for spice or diced cucumbers for extra crunch.
- If you’re planning to make this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing and tortilla chips separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch.
- This salad is not just great as a main dish; it also makes a fantastic side for barbecues or potlucks!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of tossing salads gently to maintain the integrity of the ingredients. Cutting the vegetables evenly ensures that every bite is balanced and full of flavor. Also, rinsing the black beans not only improves their taste but reduces sodium content, making your salad healthier.
FAQ
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can be a convenient option. Just drain and rinse it before adding it to the salad.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra beans or grilled veggies for protein.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
You can substitute with a creamy avocado dressing or any vinaigrette of your choice!
Conclusion
This Tex-Mex Chicken Chopped Salad is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with fresh flavors and crunchy textures that will leave you craving more. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish that embraces the spirit of comfort food while being surprisingly nutritious. Gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a salad that impresses on every level!