Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad

Introduction

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty dish that can brighten up any meal. With juicy grilled chicken and a zesty lime dressing, this salad is a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. It’s simple to make and bursting with flavor!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for so many reasons! First, it’s healthy and packed with vitamins. The fresh ingredients make it light and refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Your family will love the tasty combination of cilantro and lime, and you’ll love how quickly you can whip it up!

How to Make Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese or cotija cheese (optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
3 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions:

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake or stir well to combine.
Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and avocado. Top with the sliced grilled chicken.
Dress & Serve: Drizzle the cilantro lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with feta or cotija cheese, if using. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad

This salad is best served fresh! You can dish it out in nice bowls and enjoy it right away. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. You can also add a slice of crusty bread on the side for a heartier meal.

How to Store Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it again. This will help keep the greens fresh and crisp. Try to eat the salad within 1-2 days for the best taste.

Tips to Make Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Feel free to toss in any fresh veggies you have on hand for extra crunch and nutrients.
If you’re not a fan of feta or cotija, you can skip the cheese or replace it with your favorite type.

Variation

You can mix things up by adding black beans, corn, or even grilled shrimp instead of chicken. This makes it fun and different every time!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and dressing in advance. Just keep them separate until you’re ready to eat.
How long can I store the leftovers?
The salad is best eaten fresh, but you can keep leftovers in the fridge for 1-2 days.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or mint can be great substitutes.