Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of vibrant flavors? The Bajio Chicken Chile Salad is not just a dish; it's a fiesta on your plate! With its colorful medley of fresh ingredients and zesty lime vinaigrette, this Mexican-inspired salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that serves four, making it ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a healthy, delicious dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by thoroughly washing and chopping vegetables. Ensure chicken is fully cooked and shredded beforehand.
- Drain and rinse black beans under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Add diced tomatoes to the chicken mixture, carefully folding them in to prevent crushing.
- Chop fresh cilantro finely and sprinkle over the salad, ensuring even distribution.
- Drizzle lime vinaigrette over the entire salad, tossing gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and vinaigrette to penetrate ingredients.
- For best presentation, transfer salad to individual serving plates or a large serving platter.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves and a lime wedge for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or slightly chilled for a refreshing Mexican-style salad.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, shred the chicken and chop your vegetables in advance. This way, you can throw the salad together in no time when you're ready to eat!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and ripe tomatoes will elevate the flavor of your salad. Look for vibrant produce at your local market for the best results.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, jalapeños, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Make it your own!
- Chill Before Serving: If you have time, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Perfectly Balanced Vinaigrette: If you want a little kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the lime vinaigrette for a spicier dressing.
- Presentation Matters: For a stunning presentation, layer the ingredients in a clear bowl or platter, showcasing the colorful components of your salad.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their servings for that extra zing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
