This Taco Chicken Salad recipe is a delightful medley of flavours, combining juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing into a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It’s a testament to culinary simplicity and sophistication, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an easy yet thoroughly satisfying meal. Perfect for both a quick family dinner and special gatherings, and surely captures the essence of a beloved classic with a tasty twist.
Taco Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breasts – shredded or cubed (a rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 cups romaine lettuce heads – chopped into strips (about 10 cups)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes – sliced in half
- 1 cup corn – canned or frozen
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- 4 green onions – chopped small (about 1 cup)
- 1 ½ cups canned black beans – rinsed and drained
- ½ cup cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- ½ freshly squeezed lime
- 1 cup tortilla strips – or crushed tortilla chips
Salad Dressing:
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 Tbsp taco seasoning
Instructions:
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a medium bowl, add 1 cup of ranch dressing and 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning. Mix together until smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Salad:
- Wash, chop, and prepare all the salad ingredients: lettuce, tomatoes, corn, red onion, green onions, black beans, cheddar cheese, and cilantro (if using). Add everything to a large bowl.
Assemble the Salad:
-
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together to ensure the ingredients are well coated and evenly mixed.
Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the salad with tortilla strips and squeeze fresh lime over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Storing Leftovers:
The salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, toss the salad with the dressing to keep everything crisp.
Ingredient Variations:
You can customize the salad with various add-ins or swap the chicken for ground beef, add sliced avocado, bell peppers, sour cream, hot sauce, or roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes for a twist on the original recipe.
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Taco Chicken Salad!
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