Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic dish! Our Tex Mex Chicken Salad with Hatch Chile Jalapeno Jam Dressing is not just a salad; it's a fiesta in a bowl that brings together the zesty flavors of Mexico in every bite. Packed with juicy chicken, hearty black beans, and the sweetness of corn, this dish is elevated by the unique and spicy Hatch chile jalapeno jam dressing that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a refreshing lunch, this recipe is your ticket to a culinary adventure that you won't want to miss!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup Hatch chile jalapeno jam
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring according to the recipe specifications. Ensure chicken is fully cooked and cooled before dicing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced cooked chicken, black beans, corn, and halved cherry tomatoes. Gently mix to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Add diced avocado, red onion, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Carefully fold ingredients together to prevent mashing the avocado.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together Hatch chile jalapeno jam and fresh lime juice to create the dressing. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the Hatch chile jalapeno jam dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together and chill.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional lime juice or salt if needed.
- Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra cilantro or a lime wedge. Can be served as a standalone dish or over mixed greens.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Cook and dice the chicken, rinse the black beans, and chop the vegetables a day before serving.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe avocados and tomatoes for the best flavor and texture. If avocados are not in season, consider using a sprinkle of lime juice to keep them from browning.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or even some diced jalapenos for extra heat. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste!
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for 10-15 minutes not only enhances the flavors but also makes it a refreshing dish, especially on warm days.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad over a bed of mixed greens for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a filling on tortillas for a delicious wrap.
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, start with less jalapeno jam in the dressing and gradually add more to suit your taste.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra cilantro or a lime wedge on top will not only make your dish look appealing but also add a burst of freshness when served.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
