Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to whip up, the Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is just what you need. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it brings a little fiesta to your table, perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. The combination of hearty chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty vinaigrette makes each bite satisfying and nutritious.

What I love most about this Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Plus, it’s meal prep-friendly, so you can enjoy it throughout the week without any hassle!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy evenings.
• Flavor explosion: The spicy chipotle vinaigrette adds a bold kick that elevates this salad from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Healthy and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad keeps you satisfied without weighing you down.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prepping! You can store individual portions in the fridge for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Family-friendly: With its colorful ingredients and fun presentation, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad uses simple and wholesome items that are easy to find. Most of them might already be in your pantry or fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 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)

For the Salad

• 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 to eat bites of salad)

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein source.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some diced radishes or jicama for an extra crunch factor.
• Go green: Add other greens like spinach or kale alongside the cabbage for added nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of cotija, feel free to use feta or leave it out entirely!

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken! Place it in a large bowl and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil before adding taco seasoning. Toss well so every piece is coated—this step is essential because it infuses flavor into the chicken as it cooks. Heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Arrange your seasoned chicken in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until fully cooked through with juices running clear. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare Chipotle Vinaigrette

While your chicken cools, let’s whip up that delicious chipotle vinaigrette! In a blender or immersion blender cup, combine all dressing ingredients: avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, chipotle chili pepper, garlic clove, oregano, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth—this step creates a creamy dressing that ties all ingredients together beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble Salad

In a large bowl (the bigger, the better), combine chopped cabbage, black beans, thawed corn, diced bell pepper, cubed avocado, crumbled cheese (if using), and fresh cilantro. Slice your cooled chicken into small pieces and add them into the bowl as well. Drizzle your prepared dressing over everything and toss gently until well combined—this is where all those flavors meld together! Serve with crumbled tortilla chips on top or set them aside for scooping bites of salad—either way works great!

Now you’re ready to dive into this vibrant Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad that’s sure to become a favorite at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Making a salad that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying can be a breeze with a few handy tips. Here are some pro pointers to elevate your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad!

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opting for chicken thighs over breasts can enhance the flavor and juiciness of your salad, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Chill Your Ingredients: Keeping your vegetables and beans chilled before assembling the salad not only makes it refreshing but also adds a nice crunch to each bite.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute veggies like diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes to suit your taste! This flexibility keeps the dish exciting and allows you to incorporate seasonal produce.
• Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep! Prepare the chicken and vinaigrette ahead of time, then assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your vinaigrette before mixing it into the salad. Adjusting seasoning or adding a little more honey can make all the difference in achieving that perfect balance of flavors.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Presenting your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad in an inviting way can make all the difference at mealtime. Here are some ideas on how to serve this vibrant dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime just before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Extra Cilantro: Sprinkling additional chopped cilantro on top enhances freshness and adds beautiful green color.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love heat, adding fresh jalapeño slices provides an extra spicy punch!

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy corn salad is packed with flavor and complements the spices in your main dish beautifully.
• Quinoa with Black Beans: A light yet filling side that offers protein and fiber, making it a great match for the salad.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips is always a crowd-pleaser and adds another layer of texture to your meal.
• Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar is crisp and light, balancing out the bold flavors of your main dish.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making healthy eating simple and convenient.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
• If using tortilla chips, store them in a separate container to keep them crunchy.

Freezing

• While I recommend enjoying this salad fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months.
• Thaw chicken overnight in the refrigerator before adding it to your salad.

Reheating

• Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad with dressing; instead, serve cold and add freshly prepared dressing when ready to eat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad.

Can I use different types of protein for the Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, beef, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is the Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

The spice level can vary depending on how much chipotle pepper you use in the vinaigrette. Start with half a pepper if you’re sensitive to spice, then adjust according to your taste preference!

Can I make the Chipotle Vinaigrette ahead of time?

Yes! The vinaigrette can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using!

What can I add to my Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad for extra crunch?

For added crunch, try adding sliced radishes, jicama sticks, or even crispy chickpeas. They will complement the other textures beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this vibrant and filling Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad! It’s not just a meal; it’s an explosion of flavors and colors that will brighten your day. Whether you’re prepping for busy weeknights or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy healthy ingredients, this salad has got you covered. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me—happy cooking!