Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

If you’re in the mood for a fresh, vibrant, and flavor-packed meal that’s also a little bit zesty and a whole lot satisfying, look no further than this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad! Picture perfectly seasoned chicken grilled to smoky perfection, topped with a colorful mix of sautéed peppers, onions, and tangy lime, all nestled atop a bed of fresh greens. This salad has everything: a little heat, a touch of limey goodness, and a refreshing crunch that’ll make each bite a burst of flavor. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s light, it’s satisfying, and it’ll definitely hit the spot for those warm weather cravings or any time you want something that feels both fresh and hearty!

Why You’ll Love Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

1. Vibrant & Flavorful:

The chili lime chicken is bursting with flavor from the zesty lime, smoky chili, and just the right amount of heat. The fajita veggies add a colorful crunch, and the creamy dressing ties everything together perfectly. Every bite is a balance of bold, tangy, and fresh flavors!

2. Perfectly Balanced:

This salad has it all! You get lean protein from the grilled chicken, healthy fats from the avocado, and a good amount of crunch from the veggies. It’s a filling salad that doesn’t leave you feeling hungry an hour later.

3. Quick & Easy:

You can throw this salad together in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option. The marinade for the chicken takes just minutes to put together, and while the chicken is grilling, you can sauté your fajita veggies.

4. Customizable:

This recipe is totally adaptable to your tastes. Feel free to swap out the veggies, add some beans, or switch up the dressing if you prefer. It’s easy to make it your own!

5. Healthy & Fresh:

Loaded with fresh veggies, lean protein, and healthy fats from the avocado, this salad is perfect if you’re looking for a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant salad:

• For the Chili Lime Chicken:
  • 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Fajita Veggies:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Salad:
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges for garnish
• For the Dressing:
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into this flavorful and fresh salad:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade, then cover and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Fajita Veggies

While the chicken marinates, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and zucchini to the pan. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or on individual plates, layer the mixed greens. Top with the grilled chicken strips, sautéed fajita veggies, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle the dressing over the top and garnish with lime wedges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy the fresh, zesty goodness of this chili lime chicken fajita salad! It’s perfect as a main dish or even as a refreshing lunch option.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 420
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 590mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 38g
Vitamin A: 35% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 80% of the Daily Value
Calcium: 10% of the Daily Value
Iron: 15% of the Daily Value

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

This salad is packed with all the flavors you crave, but here are a few ideas to take it to the next level:

1. Add a Crunchy Element:

Toss in some crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and crunch. You can also add roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a nutty twist.

2. Serve with a Side:

Pair this salad with some Mexican street corn (elote) or a side of cilantro-lime rice for a more filling meal.

3. Top with Cheese:

If you love cheese, feel free to sprinkle a bit of crumbled feta, cotija, or shredded cheddar over the salad for an extra creamy finish.

4. Make It a Wrap:

To make this a more handheld option, roll up the salad ingredients in a whole-wheat or flour tortilla for a healthy chicken fajita wrap.

Additional Tips

• Chicken Alternatives: You can use grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu if you prefer a different protein.
• Dressing Swap: If you prefer a lighter dressing, try using a simple vinaigrette made with lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Meal Prep: You can prep the grilled chicken, fajita veggies, and dressing ahead of time for an easy, grab-and-go lunch throughout the week. Just assemble the salad fresh when you’re ready to eat.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

A1: Yes! If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked chicken. Just warm it up before adding to the salad.

Q2: Can I add more veggies to the salad?

A2: Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like corn, cucumber, or even roasted sweet potatoes for more flavor and texture.

Q3: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A3: You can prepare most components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Q4: Can I use a different dressing?

A4: Yes! If you prefer a different dressing, a simple cilantro-lime vinaigrette would be a great choice, or even a creamy avocado dressing for a rich, smooth flavor.

Q5: Can I make this salad gluten-free?

A5: Yes! Just make sure your dressing and any added ingredients (like tortilla chips) are gluten-free.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?

A6: Store the salad components (chicken, veggies, and dressing) separately in airtight containers in the fridge. It’s best to keep the salad greens separate to avoid sogginess.

Q7: Can I use frozen chicken?

A7: While fresh chicken works best for grilling, you can use thawed frozen chicken as well. Just be sure to marinate it well for flavor.

Q8: How can I make the salad spicier?

A8: Add some sliced jalapeños to the salad or mix in extra chili powder or hot sauce into the dressing for an extra kick.

Q9: Can I use a grill pan indoors?

A9: Yes, a grill pan works perfectly for grilling the chicken indoors. Just make sure it’s preheated and well-oiled before adding the chicken.

Q10: How can I add more protein to this salad?

A10: If you’re looking for more protein, you can add black beans, chickpeas, or even a boiled egg to boost the protein content.

Conclusion

This Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad is the kind of meal that’s as fresh as it is satisfying. Packed with juicy grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty lime dressing, it’s a perfectly balanced meal that’s both healthy and flavorful. Whether you’re having it for dinner or prepping it for lunch, it’s a dish that’s sure to leave you feeling full, happy, and craving more. Enjoy every bite!

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