This Chicken Chopped Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, juicy chicken, and crunchy toppings. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner that hits the spot!
The best part? You can customize it with your favorite dressings and toppings. Plus, who doesn’t love a salad that’s crispy and satisfying? 🥗
I love making this salad when I want something easy. Just chop, toss, and enjoy! It’s a quick way to eat healthy and feel great!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use any pre-cooked chicken for this salad. I often opt for rotisserie chicken – it’s easy and adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, grilled or baked chicken breast works perfectly too!
Mixed Greens: I love a mix of romaine and spinach for a nice balance of crunch and nutrients. If you’re out of spinach, you might try kale or any salad mix you have on hand.
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is the best in season, but frozen and canned corn are convenient substitutes. Just drain and rinse canned corn to reduce sodium.
Cheese: I recommend cheddar or a Mexican blend for a nice kick. However, feel free to use feta or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for healthier options or need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Avocado: Avocados add creaminess, but if you’re not a fan, consider using diced cucumber or even roasted sweet potatoes for a different twist!
How Do I Make a Delicious Salad Dressing?
Making a homemade dressing can elevate your salad! This simple lime dressing is zesty and refreshing. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Start by juicing two fresh limes. Be sure to strain out the seeds!
- Add in the olive oil. I usually use extra virgin for a richer flavor.
- Mix in chili powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!
- Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and slightly thickened. This only takes a minute!
Toss the dressing gently into your salad right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.
How to Make Chicken Chopped Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine and spinach)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or a Mexican blend)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken chopped salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy to make, so you can whip it up for lunch or dinner without a hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your fresh ingredients. In a large bowl, toss together the mixed greens, diced chicken, red bell pepper, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado. Make sure everything is distributed evenly, as this will be the base of your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisking is a fun way to mix everything well, creating a delicious dressing. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed!
3. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Now, gently toss everything together to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to squish the avocado pieces too much!
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Top the salad with the shredded cheese, pumpkin seeds, and freshly chopped herbs. These toppings add flavor and a nice crunch!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your chicken chopped salad is ready! Serve it immediately for the best taste, and if you like, garnish with extra lime wedges on the side. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious meal!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver. Just drain and rinse it before dicing it up to reduce sodium content. Mix it in with the other salad ingredients, and you’ll still have a delicious meal!
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you’re not a fan of avocado or need a substitute, you can use sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch, or add creamy hummus or Greek yogurt for a different texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Store the salad mix in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply add the dressing and toss!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best eaten fresh, but it can last about 1 day. Keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid soggy greens. Simply re-toss the next day!
