Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa is a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and freshness. Perfect for summer lunches or light dinners, this salad features juicy marinated chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, grilled red peppers, and a delightful mango avocado salsa. The zesty cilantro lime dressing not only enhances the salad but also serves as a marinade, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of cilantro, lime, and fresh ingredients creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of active cooking time (plus marinating), this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side at gatherings. This salad fits various occasions seamlessly.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables, it’s nutritious as well as delicious.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools to help you in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill pan or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or skillet: This tool helps achieve perfectly grilled chicken with those desirable sear marks.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade and dressing easily before using them on the chicken and salad.
• Whisk: A handy tool for ensuring that all ingredients are well-blended together in the marinade/dressing.

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)

Pin for later!

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. Pour one-third of the marinade into a shallow dish and add the chicken. Marinate for at least 15 minutes or ideally 1–2 hours in the refrigerator. 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 the marinated chicken fillets in batches for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden, crispy, and cooked through. Set aside to rest.

Step 3: Cook the Peppers

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

Step 4: Prepare the Salsa

In a bowl, combine mango, avocado, and green onion. Stir in 2 tablespoons of reserved dressing.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Slice grilled chicken into strips. In a large bowl or platter, layer romaine leaves, grilled peppers, and mango avocado salsa. Top with 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

Serving your Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa can elevate this dish and make it even more enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a light meal, here are some great serving suggestions.

Freshly Grilled

• Serve the salad immediately after grilling the chicken for a warm, delightful experience. The contrast of temperatures enhances the flavors.

Family Style

• Present the salad in a large bowl or platter for everyone to share. This encourages interaction and allows guests to customize their portions.

Individual Bowls

• For a more personal touch, serve individual bowls with all components neatly arranged. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own servings without fuss.

Add Extra Toppings

• Consider offering additional toppings like nuts or seeds for added crunch. Sliced almonds or sunflower seeds can be delightful additions that enhance texture.

Pairing with Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for an exciting crunch. This pairing is perfect for dipping into the mango avocado salsa.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• For extra nutrition, serve the salad on a bed of fluffy quinoa. This adds protein and makes the meal more filling, perfect for lunch or dinner.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

Perfecting your Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa takes just a few tips to ensure maximum flavor and freshness. Keep these in mind while preparing your dish!

• 
  

  Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh produce when making the salad. Fresh cilantro, ripe avocados, and juicy mangoes will significantly enhance the taste.

  
  
• 
  

  Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken thighs for 1-2 hours instead of just 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better.

  
  
• 
  

  Grill at high heat: Ensure your grill is hot before adding chicken. High heat helps achieve that delicious char while keeping the inside juicy.

  
  
• 
  

  Customize your salsa: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced jalapeños or bell peppers in your salsa for extra flavor and spice.

  
  
• 
  

  Balance flavors: Taste your dressing before serving; adjust lime juice or honey to balance acidity and sweetness according to your preference.

  
  
• 
  

  Serve immediately: The salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you must prepare it ahead of time, store components separately until ready to serve.

  
  

Pin for later!

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

Pairing side dishes with your Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa can create a fulfilling meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. 
   

   Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime butter complements the tropical flavors in your salad perfectly.

   
   
2. 
   

   Black Bean Tacos: Simple black bean tacos add protein and fiber, making for a satisfying pairing that enhances the meal’s heartiness.

   
   
3. 
   

   Cilantro Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro provides a nice base that balances out the vibrant flavors of your salad.

   
   
4. 
   

   Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only pairs well but also adds richness that contrasts beautifully with the bright salad tastes.

   
   
5. 
   

   Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that is refreshing and ties in nicely with the salad’s theme.

   
   
6. 
   

   Pineapple Salsa: A sweet pineapple salsa can enhance tropical notes in your dish while offering an additional layer of flavor.

   
   
7. 
   

   Chips and Guac: A classic pairing; crunchy tortilla chips served alongside guacamole make for an irresistible snack during any meal occasion.

   
   
8. 
   

   Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus drizzled with lime juice echoes the flavors found in both chicken and mango salsa, creating harmony on your plate.

   
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a perfect dish.

• Skipping the marinating step – Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes, but longer marination will yield better results.
• Using dry herbs instead of fresh cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant taste that dried herbs cannot replicate. Always opt for fresh when possible.
• Overcooking the chicken – To keep your chicken juicy, grill it just until golden and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Everyone’s taste is different, so taste the dressing and salsa before serving and adjust salt or lime juice as needed.
• Neglecting to prep ingredients ahead – Having all your ingredients ready before cooking saves time and helps maintain the salad’s freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

• Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the avocado and mango.
• If you must freeze, store only the grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken on a baking sheet until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chicken in a microwave-safe bowl; heat in short bursts until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to reheat chicken gently, avoiding drying out.

Pin for later!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?

Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa is a refreshing dish made with marinated grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful salsa.

Can I use other proteins in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for chicken if you prefer a different protein option.

How do I customize my Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans, corn, or cherry tomatoes to enhance flavor and texture.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

The salad lasts up to three days in the refrigerator if stored properly. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the salsa beforehand. Assemble the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa is perfect for summer meals. Its vibrant flavors and colors make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Feel free to mix in your favorite fruits or veggies for added variety!

---

Print