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Tex Mex Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 287 reviews

This Tex Mex Taco Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, black beans, and cheddar cheese, all tossed in a zesty ranch and taco seasoning dressing. Topped with crunchy tortilla strips and a squeeze of lime, it offers a perfect balance of textures and bold southwestern flavors, making it an easy and refreshing meal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Salad Base

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped into strips
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup sweet corn, drained (canned) or thawed (frozen)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 lime, freshly squeezed
  • 1 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips

Dressing

  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning

Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: Place cooked chicken breast, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, red onion, green onions, black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to blend ingredients evenly.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and taco seasoning until the mixture is thoroughly combined.
  3. Dress the Salad: Pour the seasoned ranch dressing over the salad mixture. Toss to ensure all components are evenly coated in dressing.
  4. Add Final Touches: Squeeze the juice of half a lime over the salad. Top with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
  5. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately for optimal crunch, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For extra protein, add blackened grilled chicken instead of shredded.
  • If you prefer a spicier salad, add some diced jalapeños to the salad base or mix into the dressing.
  • Use gluten-free tortilla chips if you need to keep the recipe gluten-free.
  • To save time, prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
  • If fresh lime is not available, bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/tex-mex-chicken-salad-recipe/