Imagine a lunch so delicious, so perfectly packaged, that it transforms your midday meal from boring to extraordinary. The Mason Jar Chicken Taco Salad isn't just a recipe—it's a portable culinary experience that combines the zesty flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of grab-and-go dining. Whether you're a busy professional, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply someone who craves a fresh and exciting lunch, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- Grilled chicken
- Black beans
- Corn
- Cherry tomatoes
- Avocado
- Shredded cheese
- Lettuce
- Taco seasoning
- Ranch dressing
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Grill the chicken until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken is grilling, rinse and drain the black beans and corn. Set them aside in separate bowls.
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half. This will help release their juices and enhance the flavor in the salad.
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Cut the avocado into small cubes and set aside to prevent browning.
- Prepare the lettuce by washing it thoroughly and then chopping it into bite-sized pieces. You can use romaine, iceberg, or any preferred variety.
- In a small bowl, mix the grilled chicken pieces with taco seasoning. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your taste preference.
- Now it's time to assemble the salad in the mason jars. Start by adding a layer of lettuce at the bottom of each jar. This will help keep the other ingredients from getting soggy.
- Next, layer the seasoned chicken on top of the lettuce, followed by the black beans and corn.
- Add a layer of cherry tomatoes and then the diced avocado. This will provide creaminess and flavor to the salad.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for added richness and texture.
- Finally, drizzle ranch dressing over the salad. You can either add it directly to the top or keep it separate until you're ready to eat.
- Seal the mason jars with their lids and store them in the refrigerator if not consuming immediately. When ready to eat, shake the jar to mix the ingredients or pour them into a bowl.
- Enjoy your delicious Mason Jar Chicken Taco Salad!
Tips
- Layer Strategically: Always start with lettuce at the bottom to prevent ingredients from getting soggy. This keeps your salad crisp and fresh until you're ready to eat.
- Chicken Preparation: For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken in taco seasoning for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will infuse the meat with incredible taste.
- Avocado Preservation: To prevent browning, sprinkle a little lime juice on your diced avocado. This adds a bright flavor and keeps the avocado looking fresh.
- Dressing Hack: If you're meal prepping, keep the ranch dressing in a separate small container to maintain the salad's crispness.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences. Try different proteins, add jalapeños for heat, or use a different type of cheese.
- Jar Selection: Use wide-mouth mason jars for easier filling and emptying. Clean, clear jars also make your salad look Instagram-worthy!
- Advance Prep: These salads can be made 2-3 days in advance, making them perfect for weekly meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
