Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Perfect for summer lunches or light dinners, it features juicy marinated chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, grilled red peppers, and a sweet-and-savory mango avocado salsa. The zesty cilantro lime dressing doubles as a marinade, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad will surely impress.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Marinade & Dressing:
• For the Salad:
• For the Mango Salsa:
• How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa
• Step 1: Make the Marinade/Dressing
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Cook the Peppers
• Step 4: Prepare the Salsa
• Step 5: Assemble the Salad
• Step 6: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa
• As a Main Dish
• With Tortilla Chips
• In a Wrap
• Topped on Quinoa
• On a Bed of Rice
• With Grilled Corn
• How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa
• Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa
• Reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
• How can I customize the mango avocado salsa?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cilantro lime dressing and mango avocado salsa creates a refreshing taste that excites the palate.
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 25 minutes (plus marinating), you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrient-rich veggies, this salad is both delicious and nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side dish at barbecues or picnics.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect grilled flavor in the chicken and peppers.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients for the marinade and salsa without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient cutting of your vegetables and chicken.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.

Ingredients

For the Marinade & Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• ½ cup fresh chopped cilantro (coriander)
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1¼ teaspoons salt

For the Salad:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thigh fillets
• 5 cups romaine (Cos) lettuce leaves, washed and dried
• 1 red bell pepper (capsicum), deseeded and sliced

For the Mango Salsa:

• 1 large mango, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 green onion (shallot), thinly sliced
• Extra cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Red chili flakes, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Make the Marinade/Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined. Pour one-third of the marinade into a shallow dish and add the chicken. Marinate for at least 15 minutes; for best results, refrigerate for 1–2 hours. Store the remaining marinade in the fridge to use as dressing.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken fillets in batches for about 5–6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, set aside to rest.

Step 3: Cook the Peppers

Wipe the skillet clean and drizzle with another teaspoon of oil. Grill or sauté red peppers until cooked to your liking.

Step 4: Prepare the Salsa

In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, avocado, and green onion. Stir in 2 tablespoons of reserved dressing to enhance flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Slice grilled chicken into strips. In a large bowl or platter, layer romaine leaves followed by grilled peppers and mango avocado salsa. Top with sliced chicken and drizzle with remaining dressing.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and sprinkle red chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately for optimal freshness.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

This vibrant and refreshing cilantro lime chicken salad pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve as a hearty main course for lunch or dinner, featuring the juicy grilled chicken and fresh salsa.

With Tortilla Chips

• Pair with crispy tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast and an additional layer of flavor.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves or whole wheat tortillas to create wraps, making it easy to enjoy on the go.

Topped on Quinoa

• For a nutritious twist, serve the salad over cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.

On a Bed of Rice

• Place the salad on a bed of cilantro lime rice for an extra burst of flavor that complements the dish.

With Grilled Corn

• Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob for a complete summer feast that’s bursting with flavor.

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How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

To achieve the best results with your cilantro lime chicken salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour. This enhances the flavors and tenderness of the meat.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cilantro, ripe avocados, and juicy mangoes to elevate the taste of your salad.
• Grill at High Heat: Cooking chicken at medium-high heat gives it that perfect char while keeping it juicy inside.
• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust red chili flakes according to your preference for spiciness in your salsa.
• Add Variety: Feel free to include other veggies like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added crunch and color.
• Serve Immediately: For best flavor and texture, enjoy this salad right after assembling it.

Best Side Dishes for Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

Complementing your cilantro lime chicken salad with delicious side dishes makes for an even more enjoyable meal. Here are some great options.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cumin and lime pairs beautifully and adds a satisfying starch.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber, making your meal heartier.
3. Corn Salsa: A refreshing corn salsa adds sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall flavors of your dish.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrients while aligning perfectly with the fresh theme.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges can be seasoned with similar spices, creating harmony in flavors across your plate.
6. Chips & Guacamole: Classic tortilla chips served with homemade guacamole offer an irresistible snack alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common mistakes for the best Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa experience.

• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes (or longer) enhances its flavor. Avoid rushing this step for a more delicious result.
• Using dried cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives the dressing and salsa a vibrant taste. Using dried cilantro can result in a less flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Grilling chicken too long makes it dry. Aim for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through, to keep it juicy.
• Neglecting the salad assembly: Layering ingredients properly ensures even distribution of flavors. Assemble your salad thoughtfully for the best experience.
• Forgetting the garnishes: Garnishes like extra cilantro and chili flakes add visual appeal and flavor. Don’t skip them to elevate your dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• item Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

• item It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture of fresh vegetables and salsa.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat chicken on a microwave-safe plate in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option while keeping the flavors vibrant.

How can I customize the mango avocado salsa?

Feel free to add diced jalapeños or bell peppers for an extra kick, or even swap mango for pineapple for a tropical twist.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just store components separately and mix when ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?

This refreshing salad pairs well with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or as part of a larger summer spread.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa is not only colorful but also bursting with fresh flavors. It’s perfect for summer lunches or light dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins! Try it today and bring a taste of summer into your home!