Some days, all I want is something fresh but with a little kick. This Chipotle Chicken Salad hits that spot perfectly—smoky, spicy, and satisfying without weighing me down. The first time I made it, the smell of cumin and smoked paprika sizzling on the grill filled the kitchen with warmth and a hint of adventure. The chicken came off tender, juicy, and just begging to be sliced over the bed of crisp greens and vibrant veggies.
That first bite was a surprise—a smoky heat from the chipotle dressing paired with creamy avocado and the brightness of lime juice. The textures danced together: juicy cherry tomatoes bursting alongside the crunch of red onion and the smooth richness of Greek yogurt in the dressing. I remember sitting by the window, the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow, savoring each mouthful as if it were a little celebration. It wasn’t just a salad; it was a pause, a moment of calm and delight in the middle of a hectic day.
- Grilled chicken seasoned with a blend of smoky spices for deep flavor.
- Fresh vegetables and avocado add a satisfying mix of textures and nutrients.
- Zesty chipotle dressing offers a creamy, spicy finish that ties everything together.
- Ready in about 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
- A colorful, balanced meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
If you’re worried about the heat level, the dressing is easily adjustable—just dial back the chipotle pepper to suit your taste. The creamy base softens the spice perfectly, making it approachable for anyone craving a little smoky warmth without overwhelming the palate.
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Chipotle Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A smoky and spicy Chipotle Chicken Salad featuring tender grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty chipotle dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen and thawed
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
1 small chipotle pepper in adobo, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Brush the chicken breasts with the spice mixture evenly on both sides.
Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
While the chicken rests, prepare the chipotle dressing by mixing Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, adobo sauce, chopped chipotle pepper, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
In a large bowl, combine mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture.
Drizzle the chipotle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Divide the salad evenly among four plates and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time? To keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess, store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have a grill? A grill pan or even a regular skillet works well to get that nicely charred flavor on the chicken.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Absolutely. Keep components like the grilled chicken, dressing, and veggies in separate containers and assemble when ready to eat.
How spicy is the chipotle dressing? It has a smoky heat that builds gradually. You can reduce the chipotle pepper amount if you prefer milder flavors.
When you try this Chipotle Chicken Salad, it’s not just about eating—it’s about savoring a moment of smoky, fresh, and satisfying flavors that brighten your day.