Mexican Chicken Salad: A Flavorful Gluten-Free Recipe
Craving
a vibrant, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor and safe for gluten-free, celiac, and gluten intolerance
diets? This Mexican
Chicken Salad is your answer! Packed with fresh ingredients,
zesty spices, and lean protein, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to
prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining.
Whether you’re in the United States, UK, or Canada, Europe, or anywhere else in
the world, this dish brings the fiesta to your table without compromising
dietary needs.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, serving suggestions, and total calorie count. Plus, we’ll share why this salad is loved by gluten-free communities worldwide. Let’s dive in!
Why This Mexican Chicken Salad is
Ideal for Gluten-Free, Celiac, and Gluten Intolerance Diets
Living
with celiac disease or gluten intolerance requires every meal to
be carefully prepared to prevent cross-contamination and sneaky gluten. This Mexican
Chicken Salad is gluten-free by nature. employing wholesome ingredients
such as fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and gluten-free spices. It's a safe,
tasty choice for anyone who must avoid gluten. yet still packs the bold flavors
of authentic Mexican food.
Mexican Chicken Salad Ingredients
(Gluten-Free)
All ingredients are easy to find at local grocery stores and are naturally gluten-free. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
·
1.5
lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
·
2
tablespoons olive oil
·
1
tablespoon lime juice
·
1
teaspoon chili powder
·
1
teaspoon cumin
·
1
teaspoon smoked paprika
·
½
teaspoon garlic powder
·
½
teaspoon onion powder
·
¼
teaspoon salt
·
¼
teaspoon black pepper
For the Salad:
·
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
·
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
·
1 cup drained and rinsed canned black beans
·
1 cup drained canned corn kernels
·
1 avocado, chopped
·
½ red onion, sliced thin
·
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Dressing:
·
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (make sure
gluten-free)
·
2 lime juice tablespoons
·
1 tablespoon olive oil
·
1 tsp honey
·
½ teaspoon cumin
·
¼ teaspoon salt
·
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings:
·
Gluten-free tortilla strips (look for
certification on labels)
·
Crushed queso fresco or feta cheese
·
Sliced jalapeños
Preparation Steps for Mexican
Chicken Salad
Step 1: Marinate and Cook the
Chicken
1. Whisk in a bowl together lime juice,
olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder,
salt, and pepper.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with the
marinade evenly. Allow to sit for 15–30 minutes.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over
medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until it is
cooked to 165°F (74°C). Let stand for 5 minutes and then cut into
strips.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
1. In a big bowl, put together romaine
lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Finish with sliced chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek
yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and
gently toss.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Top
with gluten-free tortilla strips, queso fresco, or jalapeños for added crunch
and flavor.
Total Calories and Serving Size
This
recipe feeds 4–6 individuals, depending on serving. size.
Total Calories per Serving (Approx.):
·
Salad
(without optional toppings):
380 calories
·
With
tortilla strips and cheese:
450 calories
This
makes it a balanced, nutrient-dense meal ideal for weight management or active
lifestyles.
Why People Love This Mexican Chicken
Salad
1. Gluten-Free Safe: Ideal for celiac and gluten intolerance
diets.
2. Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes
3. Adaptable: Add quinoa, substitute chicken for
shrimp, or change spice intensity.
4. Fresh & Flavorful: Blends smoky spices, creamy avocado,
and zesty lime dressing.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Tips for Success
· Check
Labels: Make sure all
canned items (beans, corn) and spices are gluten-free certified.
·
Grill
for Extra Flavor:
Charred chicken gives the salad depth.
·
Make
It Vegan: Substitute
with grilled tofu and non-dairy yogurt.
Conclusion
This Mexican Chicken Salad is not only a meal but also a feast for fresh, gluten-free ingredients appealing to celiac, gluten intolerance, and healthy eaters. With its big flavors, pop of color, and easy preparation, it's no surprise that this salad is a favorite worldwide.