Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe

If you are craving a salad that’s bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, let me introduce you to the amazing Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe. This dish combines tender chopped chicken with crisp Romaine and mixed greens, plus fresh veggies like juicy cherry tomatoes and sweet corn, all brought together with a zesty, spiced lime dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s a fresh, hearty, and downright delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or whenever you want a lively salad that feels like a fiesta in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe is in its perfectly balanced, straightforward ingredients. Every item plays a vital role, whether it’s for crunch, creaminess, or a pop of bright color that makes the salad truly inviting.

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Chopped chicken provides the savory, protein-packed base that makes this salad a satisfying meal.
• 1 cup Romaine lettuce: Adds a crisp and refreshing crunch that balances the bold flavors.
• 1 cup mixed greens: Brings variety in texture and a slightly peppery note for depth.
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes: Bursting with juiciness, these add a bright, sweet contrast.
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper: Offers a mild sweetness and vibrant color to liven things up.
• 1/4 cup red onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle bite without overpowering the salad.
• 1/4 cup corn kernels: Sweet and tender, these kernels add a warm, satisfying texture.
• 1/4 cup black beans: Drained and rinsed, they provide heartiness and a creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts slightly into the salad, lending a comforting richness.
• 1/4 cup sliced avocado: Adds smooth creaminess and healthy fats, elevating the salad’s mouthfeel.
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro: Chopped for a fresh herbal note and splash of color.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Forms the base of the zesty dressing, bringing smoothness and depth.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the dish with a sharp, citrus zing.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings gentle heat that kickstarts the Tex-Mex appeal.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness that perfectly complements the chili powder.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory layer.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the fresh flavors without overpowering.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild spice to finish the dressing.

How to Make Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Greens and Chicken

Start by mixing the chopped cooked chicken breast with the crisp Romaine lettuce and mixed greens in a large bowl. This ensures the protein and base greens are evenly distributed, setting the stage for a well-balanced salad.

Step 2: Add Fresh Veggies

Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion. These ingredients not only boost the salad’s freshness but add layers of color that make each serving as delightful to behold as it is to eat.

Step 3: Stir in Beans and Corn

Gently fold in the cooked corn kernels and black beans that have been drained and rinsed. They bring heartiness and a slightly sweet, creamy texture that beautifully contrasts with the crisp veggies.

Step 4: Sprinkle on Cheese

Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese over the surface. The cheese adds a savory, melty element that works wonderfully with the other textures and flavors.

Step 5: Add Creamy Avocado

Place the sliced avocado atop the salad, imparting rich creaminess and a buttery texture that rounds out the bold flavors.

Step 6: Toss Gently

Give everything a gentle toss to mix the ingredients without breaking up the avocado slices. This melding process begins the flavor fusion that makes this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe so memorable.

Step 7: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This zesty dressing is the secret behind the salad’s irresistible Tex-Mex flair, balancing spice and brightness perfectly.

Step 8: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the mixed salad and toss again lightly to ensure every bite is coated in that flavorful, tangy dressing.

Step 9: Finish with Cilantro

Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro across the top for a fresh, herbal aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Step 10: Serve or Chill

Your Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to serve immediately for the freshest crunch, or you can refrigerate it briefly to allow the flavors to meld even more before enjoying.

How to Serve Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your salad presentation, add a few lime wedges on the side and a sprinkle of extra cilantro or even diced fresh jalapeños for an extra kick. A dash of smoked paprika on top can also enhance the warm spice notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with warm, crispy tortilla chips or lightly toasted corn tortillas to scoop up every flavorful bite. For something heartier, a side of black bean soup or a small bowl of Mexican rice can transform your meal into a vibrant Tex-Mex feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the salad in individual mason jars layered thoughtfully, or pile it high in vibrant bowls topped with avocado slices and a drizzle of dressing for a colorful, inviting look. You can even serve it over warmed corn tortillas as an open-faced wrap for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, especially the avocado and dressing-coated greens, consider storing the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and avocado, this salad is not ideal for freezing. The texture and flavor are best when enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term, so plan accordingly to savor its peak deliciousness.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you want to enjoy warm chicken alongside it, reheat the chicken separately before tossing it back into the salad. Avoid microwaving the entire salad to preserve the crisp textures and fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time. Just chop it up and start building your Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

If you want a different cheese, try crumbled queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack for a mild, creamy alternative that complements this Tex-Mex style wonderfully.

Is this salad spicy?

The salad has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to chili powder and cumin, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding fresh jalapeños or increasing the chili powder in the dressing.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Swap out the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh, omit the cheddar cheese or use a vegan alternative, and keep the rest of the veggies and dressing to enjoy a vibrant plant-based version.

What salad greens work best in this recipe?

Romaine and mixed greens are perfect for their crunch and mild flavor, but feel free to add or swap with baby spinach, arugula, or kale for different textures and nutritional benefits.

Final Thoughts

This Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. With its perfect balance of fresh veggies, hearty protein, creamy avocado, and lively dressing, it’s sure to become a fast favorite whether you want a quick lunch or a vibrant dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joyful explosion of flavors for yourself!

Print