Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up, then this Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is just what you need! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. The bold flavors from the chipotle dressing paired with tender chicken and fresh veggies make it a hit at family gatherings or busy weeknights.

What I love most about this salad is how it brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or as a vibrant side dish for dinner, it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—just grab your favorite ingredients, toss them together, and enjoy all week long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious salad without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed: The spicy chipotle vinaigrette adds a kick that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!
• Nutrient-Dense: Filled with wholesome ingredients like black beans, corn, and avocado, this salad is both filling and nutritious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—perfect for lunches or quick dinners!
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a salad that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. Let’s gather everything we need for our Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad!

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)

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 parts of this Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on your tastes or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
• Change the cheese: Try feta if you want a tangier option—or leave it out for a dairy-free version.
• Make it spicier: If you love heat, add more chipotle peppers to the dressing!

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken

Start by placing your chicken in a large bowl and adding the extra-virgin olive oil along with taco seasoning. Toss everything well to ensure each piece of chicken is coated with those zesty flavors! Next, heat up a large skillet over medium heat—this helps lock in moisture when cooking. Once hot, arrange the chicken in the pan without crowding them; this allows them to sear beautifully! Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes before flipping them over and cooking for another 4-5 minutes until they’re cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it cool slightly before cutting.

Step 2: Prepare Chipotle Vinaigrette

Now let’s make that irresistible vinaigrette! In either a blender or an immersion blender cup, combine all of your dressing ingredients: avocado oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, chipotle chili pepper, garlic clove, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth—this dressing is packed with flavor that will elevate your salad!

Step 3: Assemble Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped red cabbage, black beans, fire-roasted corn, diced red bell pepper, cubed avocado, crumbled cheese (if using), and chopped cilantro. Cut your cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl as well. Drizzle your homemade vinaigrette over the top and toss everything together gently until well combined. For an extra crunch factor, serve with crumbled tortilla chips either sprinkled over the top or as scoops alongside!

And there you have it—a delightful Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad that’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Creating the perfect Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use Thighs for Extra Flavor: Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts, which means they add more flavor to your salad. The extra moisture helps keep the salad from feeling dry, enhancing every bite.
• Prep Ahead of Time: Chop your veggies and cook the chicken in advance. This not only saves time on the day you plan to serve it but also allows flavors to meld together, making for an even tastier salad.
• Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out any ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For example, substitute quinoa for black beans or use different types of beans for variety.
• Make Extra Vinaigrette: The chipotle vinaigrette is so good that you’ll want to drizzle it over everything! Make a little extra and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
• Serve Cold or Warm: This salad is delicious both ways! If you enjoy warm salads, serve it right after assembling while the chicken is still warm. If you prefer it cold, let it chill in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Presenting this vibrant salad can be as fun as eating it! Here are some ideas on how to make your dish visually appealing and enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime right before serving adds a zesty kick that brightens all the flavors.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick of heat, fresh slices will take your salad up a notch.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for added color and a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing corn salad combines sweet corn with cotija cheese and cilantro, making it a delightful complement to your chopped salad.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole with crispy tortilla chips is always a hit! It’s perfect for scooping alongside each bite of your salad.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime provides a hearty side that pairs well with the bold flavors of your salad.
• Vegetable Quesadillas: These easy-to-make quesadillas stuffed with cheese and assorted veggies make for a satisfying side that everyone will love.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also makes for an excellent meal prep option! It stores beautifully, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• If reheating chicken, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad as vegetables and avocado may not retain their texture after thawing.

FAQs

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

Can I use other proteins for Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian twist. Just ensure any alternative protein is seasoned and cooked thoroughly.

How do I make Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad vegan?

To make this salad vegan, replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled veggies. Use vegan cheese alternatives and sweeten your vinaigrette with maple syrup or agave instead of honey.

Can I skip the cheese in Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

Of course! If you’re looking to reduce dairy, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. The salad will still be packed with flavor!

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

Consider adding nuts like sunflower seeds or sliced almonds for an extra crunch. You could also include crispy tortilla strips on top for added texture!

Is Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This salad holds up well in the fridge when stored properly. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this tasty Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad! It’s a vibrant dish that brings together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, making it perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re preparing it for meal prep or serving it at a gathering, it’s bound to please everyone around the table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences with me—happy cooking!