A vibrant Tex-Mex Chicken Salad with fresh ingredients and bold spices.

Tex-Mex Chicken Salad: 5 Bold Flavors That Impress

BySavannah Brooks
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Tex-Mex Chicken Salad: 5 Bold Flavors That Impress

Imagine biting into a vibrant, colorful salad where each forkful is a burst of flavor, transporting you to a sunny Texan patio. The Tex-Mex Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, combining the freshness of farm-fresh vegetables with hearty chicken, zesty lime, and bold spices. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is sure to impress your family at dinner or guests at a casual gathering.

Why Make This Recipe

  • It’s a delightful medley of flavors that celebrates the vibrant tastes of Tex-Mex cuisine.
  • This salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it a health-conscious choice.
  • The ease of preparation means you can whip it up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with loved ones.

Simple Way to Prepare Tex-Mex Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious Tex-Mex Chicken Salad can be a process as rewarding as it is simple. Here’s how to transform everyday ingredients into a tantalizing dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients for ease of preparation:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, you will masterfully combine your salad ingredients. Start by adding the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. These ingredients will not only add texture but also a burst of colors that make the salad visually appealing.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together your dressing. Combine the lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until thoroughly mixed. This dressing is key as it brings all the flavors together, creating a zesty kick that truly embodies the Tex-Mex spirit.

Step 4: Toss to Combine

Now, pour your freshly made dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure that every bite is coated in that delicious dressing. You want to combine the flavors without mashing the tender avocado.

Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately

For a refreshing twist, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes prior to serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can serve it immediately for an exciting addition to your meal.

Tex-Mex Chicken Salad: 5 Bold Flavors That Impress

Best Way to Store Tex-Mex Chicken Salad

To keep your Tex-Mex Chicken Salad fresh and ready for later enjoyment, consider the following guidance.

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days at or below 40°F.
  • Freeze: If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze the components separately (except the avocado as it doesn’t freeze well) for up to 2 months.
  • Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then combine the fresh ingredients again for optimal taste.

Best Ways to Serve Tex-Mex Chicken Salad

Serving this flavorful salad offers countless possibilities and can elevate many meals.

  • Stand-Alone Dish: This salad holds its own as a main dish, ideal for lunch or dinner.
  • Wrap It Up: Use flour or corn tortillas to wrap the salad into a delicious burrito, making it a fun handheld option.
  • Chips and Dip: Serve with tortilla chips for an excellent snack, pairing the crunch with the creaminess of the avocado and beans.
  • Side Dish: It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables as a fresh side.

No matter how you choose to serve it, your guests will delight in the beautiful presentation and remarkable flavor profile of this dish.

Tips to Make Tex-Mex Chicken Salad

  • Avocado Addition: For an even creamier salad, consider blending the avocado into the dressing instead of dicing. It gives a smooth texture to the salad.
  • Marinate the Chicken: If you have time, marinate the chicken beforehand with lime juice and cumin for deeper flavor.
  • Fresh Herbs: Use other herbs like parsley or mint alongside cilantro for a refreshing twist.
  • Spice Level: If you prefer a kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Variations or Substitutions

Feel free to personalize this salad according to your dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

  • Proteins: Instead of shredded chicken, you can use grilled shrimp or even a hearty black bean mix for a vegetarian option.
  • Vegetables: If red bell peppers aren’t available, consider using green bell peppers or even diced zucchini for variety.

Experimenting with different flavors and textures is part of the fun!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the avocado separate until serving to prevent browning.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and remain moist. Just cook them until fully done, shred, and add them to your salad.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
Adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a couple of dashes of your favorite hot sauce in the dressing will give your salad that extra zing.

Nutritional Info

For those who are health-conscious, the Tex-Mex Chicken Salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Here is a basic breakdown per serving:

  • Calories: Approximately 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fats: 15g
  • Fiber: 10g

With the combination of proteins, fibers, and essential vitamins, this dish not only serves as a hearty meal but also nourishes your body.

In summary, the Tex-Mex Chicken Salad is a truly versatile and vibrant dish that makes for a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed on its own, as a side, or wrapped up in a tortilla, you can make this dish your own and impress anyone seated at your table. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and create this colorful masterpiece today!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Tex-Mex Chicken Salad

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten-Free
Print Recipe

Description

A vibrant and colorful salad featuring shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing, celebrating the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients for ease of preparation.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or serve immediately.

Notes

For a creamier salad, consider blending the avocado into the dressing instead of dicing. Marinate chicken with lime juice and cumin for deeper flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Avatar photo

Hi, I’m Savannah Brooks, 35 years old, born in Charleston, South Carolina, and now living in Seattle, Washington. My kitchen is small but full of life shelves stacked with spices from all over the world, a sourdough starter that feels like part of the family, and usually a pot bubbling away with something hearty and comforting.

Food has always been the center of my world. Growing up in Charleston, I was surrounded by Southern cooking shrimp and grits, okra stews, biscuits that could melt in your mouth. My grandmother was the first person who showed me that recipes are more than instructions they’re stories passed from one hand to another. I still keep her stained recipe cards in a box, though I’ve long since memorized every one.

My path wasn’t traditional. I studied journalism first, thinking I’d write stories for a living. And I do but now I write them on the plate. After years of working late nights in small cafés, catering weddings, and even running a food truck, I found my true rhythm in cooking that bridges my Southern roots with global inspiration. These days, you’ll find me folding lemongrass into chicken soup, adding harissa to cornbread batter, or topping fried green tomatoes with a touch of miso.

I don’t believe cooking is about perfection it’s about connection. My kitchen is a place for experiments, happy accidents, and plenty of laughter. I’ve burned cookies, curdled sauces, and dropped more than one cake. But every mistake taught me something, and every shared meal reminded me why I love this work.

I cook for people who want food that feels like home but isn’t afraid to wander a little. My hope is that when someone takes a bite of my food, they feel cared for, seen, and maybe a little inspired to try something new in their own kitchen.

So, welcome to my world where Southern comfort meets global curiosity, and every dish tells a story.

Other recipes

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette – The Perfect Blend of Tangy & Smooth

ByELENE

If you’ve ever wanted a salad dressing that’s rich, tangy, and silky smooth, look no further than the creamy balsamic vinaigrette. This versatile recipe isn’t just for salads—it’s a flavor-packed addition to marinades, roasted vegetables, and even grain bowls. With its balanced acidity, subtle sweetness, and velvety texture, it’s no surprise this dressing has become…

Cucumber Feta Salad with fresh ingredients in a bowl

Cucumber Feta Salad

ByOlivia Carter

Cucumber Feta Salad Feeling the summer heat or simply looking for a refreshing side dish? The Cucumber Feta Salad might just be the answer! Crisp, cool cucumbers paired with tangy feta create a vibrant dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a barbecue, picnic, or a light lunch. Add a sprinkle of dill and a…

Bowl of loaded baked potato soup with cheese, bacon, and chives

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

BySavannah Brooks

Loaded Baked Potato Soup There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Loaded Baked Potato Soup is that perfect blend of rich flavors and heartiness that everyone craves once the temperatures drop. With its creamy texture, crispy bacon, and melty cheese…

Delicious and colorful potato salad served in a bowl

Potato Salad

ByELENE

why make this recipe Potato salad is a classic dish that everyone loves. It is easy to make and perfect for gatherings. Whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or family dinner, this salad brings joy to the table. The creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables give a great mix of flavors and textures that brighten any meal….