Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant, hearty meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious, this Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is just the ticket! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only packed with flavor but is also super easy to whip up on busy weeknights or for family gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a spicy chipotle vinaigrette makes every bite feel like a celebration.

What I love most about this salad is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish fits right in. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of taco-seasoned chicken and zesty vinaigrette will have your taste buds dancing.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch at once! It stores well in the fridge for lunches throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
• Family Favorite: Everyone in the family will love this colorful and satisfying dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this tasty salad. Each one adds its own special touch to the dish, ensuring every bite is flavorful and filling.

For the Salad

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (I prefer using thighs)
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning (I use Siete brand)
• 4 to 5 cups chopped or shaved red cabbage
• 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen fire-roasted corn, thawed
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium ripe avocado, cubed
• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija or queso fresco
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional for serving: tortilla chips (crumbled overtop or used as scoopers)

For the Chipotle Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup avocado oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 1 chipotle chili pepper (from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add some heat: If you like extra spice, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Go green: Mix in some baby spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
• Change up the beans: Try using pinto beans or chickpeas if you want to switch things up!

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken

Start by placing your chicken in a large bowl along with the extra-virgin olive oil and taco seasoning. Toss everything together until well coated—this step ensures that each bite of chicken bursts with flavor! Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken undisturbed for about 5 minutes before flipping it over. Depending on thickness, cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until it’s fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken onto a plate to cool slightly before chopping.

Step 2: Prepare the Chipotle Vinaigrette

In this step, we bring everything together with a bold dressing! Combine all vinaigrette ingredients—avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, chipotle chili pepper, garlic clove, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper—in a blender or immersion blender cup. Blend until smooth! This dressing adds that signature kick to our salad.

Step 3: Assemble Salad

Now comes the fun part! In a large bowl, mix together chopped cabbage, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, cubed avocado, crumbled cheese, and cilantro. Cut your chicken into small pieces and add it to this colorful mixture. Pour in your yummy dressing and toss everything together until well combined. For an extra crunch factor, serve with crumbled tortilla chips sprinkled on top or use them as scoopers to enjoy every tasty bite!

With these easy steps completed—and trust me; they couldn’t be simpler—you’ll have yourself a delightful Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad ready to be devoured! Enjoy every flavorful mouthful; you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Creating a delicious Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is a breeze with these handy tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor of your salad but also boost its nutritional value. The crunch of fresh cabbage and the creaminess of ripe avocado make all the difference!
• Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavorful chicken, marinate it for 30 minutes (or longer if you have time) in the olive oil and taco seasoning mixture before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat deeply, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or your favorites! Adding diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes can introduce new textures and flavors that you’ll love.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can chop your veggies and cook your chicken in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers, and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of chipotle pepper in the vinaigrette. You can always add more spice later if desired, so start conservatively!

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Serving your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad can be as fun as creating it! Here are some ideas to present this colorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving for a zesty kick that brightens up all the flavors.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy an extra kick, adding sliced jalapeños on top provides both heat and visual appeal.
• Extra Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds flavor but also enhances the dish’s vibrant look.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime and cilantro complements the salad nicely while adding heartiness to your meal.
• Guacamole: A creamy guacamole served on the side pairs perfectly with this salad. It’s great for dipping tortilla chips or drizzling over each serving.
• Corn Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside some crunchy tortilla chips for that satisfying crunch! They’re perfect for scooping up bites of salad.
• Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions—adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salad.

This Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough to accommodate various preferences and occasions. Enjoy making it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making healthy eating a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing.
• If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can freeze it separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you need to reheat any leftover chicken, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad, as fresh veggies are best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common queries!

Can I make Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

What is the best way to store Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping the dressing separate to preserve freshness. Enjoy within 3-4 days!

Can I use other vegetables in my Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or radishes for added crunch.

How long does Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for about 3-4 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and flavorful Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad as much as I do! It’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or just looking for a fresh dinner idea, this salad is sure to brighten your day. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!