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, vibrant flavors. Perfect for summer lunches or light dinners, this salad features juicy marinated chicken, crisp romaine, and a sweet-and-savory salsa that elevates the experience. With its zesty cilantro lime dressing that doubles as a marinade, it’s a standout dish for any occasion.

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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:
• For Garnish
• 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
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Tortilla Chips
• In a Wrap
• As a Meal Prep Option
• 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
• How do I make Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?
• Can I customize my Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?
• What can I serve with Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?
• How long does Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa last?
• Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of fresh herbs and produce creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Quick Preparation: With only 25 minutes of total time (plus marinating), it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or nuts to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious salad, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill pan or skillet: This is essential for cooking the chicken to achieve that perfect grilled flavor.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl allows you to easily mix the marinade and salad ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures all marinade ingredients are well combined for optimal flavor infusion.

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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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, and 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 the reserved dressing.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

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

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

This vibrant salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh Spinach: Add a layer of fresh spinach beneath the salad for added nutrition and color.
• Arugula: The peppery taste of arugula complements the sweet mango and creamy avocado.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy Side: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for an added crunch.
• Dipping Delight: Use the extra cilantro lime dressing as a dip for the chips.

In a Wrap

• Whole Wheat Tortillas: Wrap the salad in whole wheat tortillas for a tasty on-the-go meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad filling.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Mason Jars: Layer ingredients in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Separate Containers: Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness until ready to eat.

How to Perfect Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

To elevate your cilantro lime chicken salad, consider these helpful tips that ensure maximum flavor and freshness.

• Marinate Longer: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe avocados and mangoes for optimal taste and texture.
• Grill Chicken Properly: Ensure your grill pan is hot before adding chicken for perfect searing.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers or radishes based on your preference.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste test and adjust salt or lime juice according to your liking.
• Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, ensuring dressings are stored separately.

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

Pairing side dishes with this cilantro lime chicken salad can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and complements the flavors beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers additional texture and nutrition.
3. Black Bean Tacos: These add heartiness and pair well with the fresh flavors of the main dish.
4. Rice Pilaf: A simple herb-infused rice pilaf provides a mild side that doesn’t overpower the main flavors.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness balances well with the zesty salad ingredients.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can serve as a light palate cleanser after this filling dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, but ideally for 1–2 hours.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Grill until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted produce affects taste. Always use fresh cilantro, ripe mangoes, and avocados for the best flavor.
• Not Balancing Flavors: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your dish flat. Always check the flavors of your salsa and dressing before serving.
• Using Wrong Storage Techniques: Improper storage can spoil your salad. Make sure to store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

• Freezing is not recommended due to avocado and lettuce texture changes.
• If necessary, freeze only the grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag.
• Consume frozen chicken within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?

To prepare this salad, marinate the chicken, grill it, and combine it with fresh vegetables and salsa. Don’t forget to add the zesty dressing!

Can I customize my Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like corn or black beans for extra texture and flavor.

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

This salad pairs well with tortilla chips or a light soup. It’s perfect as a main dish or a refreshing side.

How long does Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute shrimp or tofu if you prefer a different protein option while keeping the same delicious flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad with Mango Avocado Salsa is not only vibrant and flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light dinner or packing it for lunch, you can customize this recipe easily by adding your favorite ingredients. Try making it today!

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