Chicken Salad with Chipotle Ranch
A hearty salad with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado, all tossed in a creamy, smoky chipotle ranch dressing. It's a perfect, satisfying lunch or dinner that's packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- b.In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper.
- c.Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides.
- d.Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts.
- e.Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- f.Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing or dicing. This keeps the chicken juicy.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Chipotle Ranch Dressing
- b.In a blender or a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, buttermilk, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and lime juice.
- c.Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and the remaining 0.5 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp black pepper.
- d.Blend or whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If it's too thick, add a splash more buttermilk.
- e.Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Salad Base
- b.In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, rinsed black beans, drained corn, and thinly sliced red onion.
- c.Gently toss the base ingredients to distribute them evenly.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine, Dress, and Serve
- b.Add the rested, sliced chicken and the diced avocado to the salad bowl.
- c.Drizzle about half of the chipotle ranch dressing over the salad.
- d.Gently toss everything together until well-coated. Add more dressing to your liking.
- e.Garnish with fresh cilantro and optional tortilla strips. Serve immediately for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a shortcut, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shred the meat.
- 2Grill the corn on the cob before cutting it off for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- 3To prevent the avocado from browning, add it to the salad just before tossing with the dressing.
- 4The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and become even better.
- 5If you prefer a less spicy dressing, start with one chipotle pepper and add more to taste.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace the chicken with grilled steak, shrimp, or a can of rinsed chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Incorporate diced bell peppers (any color), cherry tomatoes, or jicama for extra crunch and nutrients.
Make it a Grain BowlMake it a Grain Bowl
Serve the salad components over a bed of cooked quinoa or cilantro-lime rice to make it even more filling.
Cheese ToppingCheese Topping
Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, queso fresco, or a shredded Mexican cheese blend before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
The grilled chicken provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle building, repair, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
High in Dietary Fiber
With black beans, corn, and fresh vegetables, this salad is rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Avocado is a fantastic source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
This colorful salad offers a wide array of essential nutrients, including Vitamin C, potassium, and iron, supporting overall immune function and energy levels.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this salad contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the exact amount of dressing and optional toppings used. It's a substantial, well-balanced meal.