Chicken Taco Salad
Romaine with grilled chicken, beans, corn, salsa, avocado, and tortilla strips.
For 1 serving
3 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Coat chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
- b.Grill for 6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- c.Let the meat rest for 2 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
TIPPreheat the grill to medium-high to ensure a good sear without overcooking the center. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine romaine, beans, corn, salsa, avocado, and sliced chicken in a large bowl.
- b.Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- c.Top with the toasted tortilla strips and fresh cilantro before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the oil and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- 2To prevent the avocado from browning, slice it just before serving and spritz with a little lime juice.
- 3Don't dress the salad until you are ready to serve to keep the lettuce crisp.
- 4For a faster meal, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat and toss it with the spice mix and a tablespoon of oil before adding to the salad.
- 5If meal prepping, store the cooked chicken, chopped veggies, and dressing in separate airtight containers. Assemble just before eating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the chicken with 1.5 lbs of ground beef or turkey, cooked with the same seasonings. You can also use grilled shrimp or steak.
Vegetarian/VeganVegetarian/Vegan
Omit the chicken and double the amount of black beans, or use a plant-based protein like seasoned tofu or tempeh. Use a vegan ranch dressing and vegan cheese.
Dressing ChangeDressing Change
Swap the ranch for a zesty cilantro-lime vinaigrette, a creamy avocado dressing, or simply salsa and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Feel free to add other vegetables like sliced bell peppers (any color), jalapeños for a spicy kick, or sliced radishes for extra crunch.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
The chicken breast provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
High in Dietary Fiber
With black beans, corn, lettuce, and other vegetables, this salad is rich in dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes gut health.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Avocado is a fantastic source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. These healthy fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and provide sustained energy.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this salad contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the amount of dressing and tortilla chips used. It's a substantial meal-sized salad.