Zesty Tropical Chicken Salad

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a refreshing dish that combines the vibrant flavors of the tropics, this Zesty Tropical Chicken Salad is for you. It's perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant dinner option, bursting with fresh ingredients that sing in harmony.

Ingredients for Zesty Tropical Chicken Salad

Cooked chicken breast is your protein-packed base, offering a lean and satisfying element to the salad. Mango brings a sweet, juicy note that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. Avocado adds creaminess, balancing the salad's textures. Red onion gives a sharp, pungent flavor that wakes up your taste buds. Cilantro introduces a fresh, herbal aroma that ties the ingredients together.

Toasted almonds add a crunch, elevating the salad's texture. The lime juice and olive oil dressing is slightly sweetened with honey, creating a vibrant and zesty finish. A pinch of salt and pepper rounds out the flavors perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising on flavor.
  • To prevent the avocado from browning, toss it with a little lime juice before adding it to the salad.
  • Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, enhancing their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with a side of warm, crusty bread or a bowl of quinoa for a more filling meal. For a summery vibe, serve it in lettuce cups or over a bed of mixed greens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different fruit instead of mango?
Absolutely! Pineapple or papaya would be great alternatives, offering a similar sweetness and tropical touch.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for about 2 days when stored in an airtight container. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly.
Is there a substitute for cilantro?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be used instead for a different yet delicious flavor.

Zesty Tropical Chicken Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large bowl. Toss in your shredded chicken, making sure it's evenly distributed. Add the diced mango and avocado, followed by the finely chopped red onion and fresh cilantro. These ingredients create the colorful base of your salad.

In a separate small bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, and honey. Whisk until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified. Taste it, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. The balance here should be tangy, with a hint of sweetness.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together to ensure the flavors meld without mashing the avocado. Once everything is coated evenly, sprinkle the toasted almonds on top for that delightful crunch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — no need to spend hours in the kitchen.
  • A delightful mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
  • Packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and lean protein.
  • Perfect for meal prepping — stays delicious for days.
  • Brings a taste of the tropics to your table anytime.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 ripe mango, diced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced mango, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle toasted almonds on top before serving.

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