This colorful chipotle chicken salad is packed with flavor! Tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing make it a tasty meal for any day.
It’s so fresh and fun to eat, you might forget you’re eating healthy! I love tossing in some avocado for extra creaminess—yum!
Making this salad is a breeze. Just mix everything in a bowl, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal in no time! Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the star of the salad. You can easily use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer, leftover grilled or baked chicken works well too.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If you’re looking for a healthier option, stick with Greek yogurt. For a non-dairy alternative, you can use cashew or coconut yogurt instead.
Chipotle Sauce: This adds the key smoky flavor. Adjust the amount to make it spicier or milder. For a milder taste, try using adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers instead.
Fresh Cilantro: A must for that fresh taste! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider parsley or even chives as a substitute. They’ll still give you some fresh notes.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Creamy and Delicious?
Getting the right creaminess in your chicken salad is all about the balance of ingredients. Start with your Greek yogurt or sour cream and mayonnaise as your base. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine shredded chicken with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise in a large bowl.
- Mix well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated for an even flavor.
- Gradually add in the chipotle sauce while mixing, so you can control the spice level.
Make sure to taste as you go. This way, you can adjust the ingredients to your liking. Once mixed, allow the salad to chill for a while in the fridge. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully!
How to Make Easy Chipotle Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad is quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation, making it a fantastic choice for a busy day. Enjoy it immediately or refrigerate for an even cooler treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and mayonnaise. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything well until the chicken is fully coated. This creamy base is what makes the salad so tasty!
2. Add the Spice:
Now, it’s time to spice things up! Gradually add the chipotle sauce, mixing it into the chicken mixture. Taste as you go, so you can adjust the spice level to your liking—more for heat, less for a milder flavor.
3. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, stir in the chopped red onion, diced celery, corn, and fresh cilantro. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a burst of flavor in every bite.
4. Season to Perfection:
Pour in the lime juice and sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together again so all the flavors combine nicely. You want each bite to be delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your chipotle chicken salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. Serve it with crunchy tortilla chips on the side for a delightful dip. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the meat off the bones and use it in the salad. It adds flavor, and you won’t need to cook chicken from scratch!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, consider substituting the chicken with chickpeas or black beans. Just make sure to rinse and drain canned beans, or cook dried ones beforehand. The flavor and texture will be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the salad a day in advance! Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best flavor, add the lime juice right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve added tortilla chips, consider keeping them separate to maintain their crunch. Re-stir the salad before serving to redistribute the flavors!
