Hello, food enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into a delightful culinary experience that combines zesty flavors and refreshing textures? Today, we’re bringing you a vibrant Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad is not just a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes. With its colorful ingredients and tantalizing aroma, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Introduction
The Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of Mexican-inspired flavors, bringing together juicy, marinated chicken with a fresh mango and avocado salsa. It’s light, healthy, and packed with vibrant colors and textures. The marinade doubles as a dressing, giving every bite a burst of citrusy goodness. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a refreshing summer meal.
To complement the bold flavors of the cilantro lime chicken, the Mango Avocado Salsa adds a sweet and tangy twist. The combination of ripe mangoes, creamy avocado, and a hint of chili provides the perfect contrast, creating a balanced dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve it on its own, or pair it with some warm tortillas for a complete meal experience.
Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
Marinade/Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ cup fresh chopped cilantro (coriander)
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt
Salad:
- 4 chicken thigh fillets (skin removed, no bone)
- 5 cups Romaine or Cos lettuce leaves, washed and dried
- 1 red pepper (capsicum), deseeded and sliced
Mango Salsa:
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 green onion (shallot), peeled and thinly sliced
- Extra cilantro leaves to garnish
- Red chili flakes to garnish
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Marinade
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic, honey, brown sugar, ground cumin, and salt. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth and flavorful marinade.
Step2: Marinate the Chicken
Pour a third of the marinade into a shallow dish and add the chicken fillets. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (ideally 1-2 hours if you have time). Set aside the remaining marinade in the refrigerator to use as a dressing later.
Step3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a teaspoon of oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken fillets for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Once done, set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step4: Grill the Peppers
In the same pan, add another teaspoon of oil. Grill or fry the sliced red peppers until they are slightly charred and cooked to your liking. This step enhances the sweetness of the peppers, making them a perfect addition to the salad.
Step5: Prepare the Mango Avocado Salsa
Combine the diced mango, avocado, and green onion in a medium bowl. Add two tablespoons of the reserved dressing to the salsa and gently toss to coat. This step infuses the salsa with the bright, tangy flavors of the cilantro lime dressing.
Step6: Assemble the Salad
Arrange the lettuce leaves in a large serving bowl or platter. Top with the grilled peppers and mango salsa. Slice the chicken into strips and layer them over the salad. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for an added kick.
Step7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad is now ready to be served! Pair it with some warm tortillas, a side of rice, or enjoy it as a standalone meal.
Helpful Tips for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro will enhance the flavors of this dish.
- Marinate Longer for Better Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight for a more intense flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When grilling the chicken, cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
- Customize the Salsa: Add some diced jalapeños or swap mangoes for pineapples for a tropical twist.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
- Use a Grill Pan: A grill pan adds those beautiful char marks to the chicken, enhancing the overall presentation.
- Rest the Chicken Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes locks in the juices, ensuring a tender bite every time.
- Add a Crunchy Element: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or tortilla strips for an added crunch.
Serving Suggestions for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
This salad pairs perfectly with:
- Warm Tortillas: Wrap the chicken and salsa in a tortilla for a handheld meal.
- Mexican Rice: Serve alongside a bowl of seasoned rice for a complete, hearty meal.
- Chilled White Wine: The zesty flavors of this salad go beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine.
Nutritional Information
This Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. Each serving provides:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 8g
- Vitamin C: 50% of the daily value
- Iron: 15% of the daily value
Storage and Leftovers for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
- Refrigeration: Store the salad components separately to keep them fresh. The chicken can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken strips in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the mango and avocado.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
3. What other dressings can I use?
A creamy ranch or a tangy vinaigrette can be great alternatives.
4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare all components separately and combine just before serving.
Related Recipes for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad Lovers:
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix
These savory sausage balls make a perfect appetizer or snack to pair with your salad. - Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread
A hearty dish that complements the zesty flavors of the Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal plan. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
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Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa Recipe
Description
Hello, food enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into a delightful culinary experience that combines zesty flavors and refreshing textures? Today, we’re bringing you a vibrant Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad is not just a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes. With its colorful ingredients and tantalizing aroma, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ cup fresh chopped cilantro (coriander)
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Salad:
- 4 chicken thigh fillets (skin removed, no bone)
- 5 cups Romaine or Cos lettuce leaves, washed and dried
- 1 red pepper (capsicum), deseeded and sliced
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 green onion (shallot), peeled and thinly sliced
- Extra cilantro leaves to garnish
- Red chili flakes to garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic, honey, brown sugar, ground cumin, and salt. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth and flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Pour a third of the marinade into a shallow dish and add the chicken fillets. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (ideally 1-2 hours if you have time). Set aside the remaining marinade in the refrigerator to use as a dressing later.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a teaspoon of oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken fillets for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Once done, set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Grill the Peppers
In the same pan, add another teaspoon of oil. Grill or fry the sliced red peppers until they are slightly charred and cooked to your liking. This step enhances the sweetness of the peppers, making them a perfect addition to the salad.
Step 5: Prepare the Mango Avocado Salsa
Combine the diced mango, avocado, and green onion in a medium bowl. Add two tablespoons of the reserved dressing to the salsa and gently toss to coat. This step infuses the salsa with the bright, tangy flavors of the cilantro lime dressing.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Arrange the lettuce leaves in a large serving bowl or platter. Top with the grilled peppers and mango salsa. Slice the chicken into strips and layer them over the salad. Drizzle the remaining dressing on top and garnish with extra cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for an added kick.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad is now ready to be served! Pair it with some warm tortillas, a side of rice, or enjoy it as a standalone meal.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and cilantro will enhance the flavors of this dish.
- Marinate Longer for Better Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight for a more intense flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When grilling the chicken, cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming.
- Customize the Salsa: Add some diced jalapeños or swap mangoes for pineapples for a tropical twist.
