This Taco Chicken Salad is a fiesta in a bowl! Packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and crunchy tortilla chips, it’s colorful and full of flavor.
I love adding a scoop of homemade salsa on top for a tasty twist. It’s quick to make, making it perfect for busy days or a fun lunch with friends!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or poach some chicken breasts if you’re in the mood to cook!
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds a nice crunch! If you prefer leafy greens, feel free to use spinach or mixed salad greens for a change.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness; however, chopped regular tomatoes can work too. If you’re a fan of roasted flavors, try using roasted tomatoes for a different twist!
Black Beans: They’re nutritious and filling. If you’re avoiding beans, try adding corn or chickpeas for a different texture.
Cheeses: Cotija cheese gives a yummy salty kick, but feta is a good substitute. You can even skip cheese altogether for a lighter option!
How Do I Ensure the Salad is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Mixing your salad right is key to making sure every bite is tasty. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
- Start with a base of lettuce and layer your ingredients on top. This keeps everything from getting soggy.
- When you’re ready to eat, drizzle dressing over the top. This helps coat all the ingredients without causing wilting.
- Use tongs to gently toss the salad, ensuring that the chicken, beans, and veggies are equally distributed.
By layering first and tossing just before serving, you’ll get a fresh and balanced flavor in every bite!
Taco Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (feta is a good substitute)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup creamy ranch or cilantro-lime dressing (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Taco Chicken Salad is super quick to prepare! You’ll spend about 15 minutes assembling it. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by taking a large salad bowl and adding the chopped romaine lettuce as your base. This gives a fresh, crunchy foundation to your salad.
2. Layer the Chicken:
Next, evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the lettuce. This adds protein and delicious flavor to your salad!
3. Add the Veggies:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and black beans across the top. These colorful ingredients not only taste great but also make your salad look vibrant!
4. Top it Off with Avocado:
Arrange the sliced avocado beautifully on top of the salad. Avocado adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.
5. Cheese, Please:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cotija cheese over the entire salad. Cheese makes everything better!
6. Freshen it Up:
Add the chopped cilantro for an herbaceous pop of flavor. Cilantro gives your salad a fresh taste.
7. Dress it Right:
Drizzle your creamy ranch or cilantro-lime dressing over the salad. Be generous; dressing is key for bringing all the flavors together.
8. Toss it All Together:
Just before serving, gently toss the salad to mix everything well. You can also serve it as is for a stunning presentation!
Enjoy the crisp and creamy textures combined with the classic taco flavors in this quick and delicious Taco Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred it and mix it in—you’ll save time and reduce food waste!
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, corn, red onion, or even olives for extra flavor and crunch. Tailor it to your preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the avocado, consider adding it right before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the avocado fresh!