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Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Zesty Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad for Flavorful Meal Prep

Enjoy the Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad, a vibrant meal prep gem that's high in protein and gluten-free.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts Thighs bring extra moisture and flavor.
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil Extra-virgin, helps season the chicken.
  • 2 Tbsp Taco Seasoning Choose a gluten-free blend if needed.
For the Salad
  • 4 to 5 cups Red Cabbage Chopped or shaved; green cabbage works well too.
  • 1 can Black Beans 15 oz., drained and rinsed.
  • 1 cup Fire-Roasted Corn Thawed; fresh corn can be used if available.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Diced; yellow or orange bell peppers can be substituted.
  • 1 medium Avocado Cubed; add right before serving to prevent browning.
  • 1/3 cup Cotija or Queso Fresco Crumble; feta cheese can serve as an alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro Roughly chopped; feel free to omit if not a fan.
  • Tortilla Chips Optional, adds an extra crunch.
For the Chipotle Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup Avocado Oil A great choice for a light dressing.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Brings tanginess to the salad.
  • 2 Tbsp Honey Add sweetness; use maple syrup for vegan option.
  • 1 Chipotle Chili Pepper From adobo sauce, adjust to spice preference.
  • 1 clove Garlic Enhances the depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano Provides herbal notes.
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin Adds warmth to the vinaigrette.
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper A touch of spice.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Blender
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Begin by placing the boneless chicken thighs or breasts in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken. Toss until well-coated.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, checking for a golden crust before flipping. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F. Let rest and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a blender, combine the avocado oil, red wine vinegar, honey, chipotle chili pepper, garlic, oregano, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red cabbage, black beans, corn, and diced red bell pepper. Fold in the cubed avocado, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and sliced chicken.
  5. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately with tortilla chips or refrigerate for meal prep.

Nutrition

Serving: 1saladCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 29gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 8gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For meal prep, store the dressing separately for freshness. Leftovers can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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