This vibrant salad combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh veggies and zesty flavors for a refreshing meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, colorful dish.
In a resealable bag, combine lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, seal the bag, and give it a good shake to coat everything. Pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least an hour, or even overnight if you have the time.
02
Grill and Chill Chicken
When you’re ready to cook, heat up your grill to medium and brush the grates with a little oil so the chicken doesn’t stick. Grill the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. Let it rest for a few minutes before chopping it roughly, then pop it in the fridge to chill.
03
Toss Salad and Dressing
In a big bowl, toss together the romaine, baby greens, corn, Cheddar, black beans, and cucumber. In a small bowl, stir ranch dressing, salsa, and chopped cilantro until well mixed. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine.
04
Add chips and chicken
Right before serving, sprinkle crushed taco chips over the salad along with the chopped chicken. Give it one last gentle toss and enjoy!
03 / EXTRA DETAILS
Good to know.
Cook's tip
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- Use a grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill to get nice grill marks and smoky taste.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy before slicing.
Why you’ll love it
This dish brings together juicy grilled chicken and fresh, vibrant vegetables with a burst of zesty flavors. It’s light, healthy, and perfect for warm days when you want something satisfying without feeling heavy.
Serving ideas
Serve this salad with a side of warm tortilla chips or a slice of crusty bread. A cold glass of lime-infused water or a light white wine pairs beautifully with the fresh and lively flavors.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Reheat the chicken gently if desired, or enjoy it cold.