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Grilled Chicken Salad with Chipotle Mayo Dressing

Grilled Chicken Salad with Chipotle Mayo Dressing

A vibrant Grilled Chicken Salad with a smoky and creamy chipotle mayo dressing that perfectly balances bold flavors, fresh vegetables, and lean protein. Ideal for a healthy lunch, satisfying dinner, or make-ahead meal prep, this recipe combines tender grilled chicken, mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a zesty, customizable chipotle mayo dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, arugula)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced

For the Chipotle Mayo Dressing

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 12 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Marinating the Chicken

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, salt, pepper, and lime juice for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor and keep the meat juicy when grilled.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices and tenderness.
  3. Make the Chipotle Mayo Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the amount of chipotle to suit your heat preference.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the mixed salad greens with halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and diced avocado. Place the sliced grilled chicken on top.
  5. Drizzle and Serve: Generously drizzle the chipotle mayo dressing over the salad and toss lightly to combine. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure your grill is hot and clean to achieve perfect grill marks on the chicken.
  • Rest grilled chicken for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
  • If the chipotle mayo is too thick, add a splash of water or lime juice to thin it for easier drizzling.
  • Wash and prep salad vegetables in advance to reduce meal prep time.
  • Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain vibrant color.
  • For variations, try different proteins, add crunchy toppings, or adjust the dressing’s spiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken salad, chipotle mayo dressing, healthy salad, meal prep, smoky chicken salad, creamy dressing, easy summer salad