Description
Discover a delightful fusion of vibrant flavors with this Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad. Tender chicken tenderloin strips are marinated and grilled to perfection, paired with a refreshing array of vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
– 2 chicken tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
– 1 red or yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, cilantro, garlic, salt, black pepper, honey (if using), and olive oil. Reserve half of this mixture for the dressing. Add chicken tenderloin strips to the remaining marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let sit for 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, julienne or slice the carrots, and slice the bell pepper. Dice the avocado if using.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken strips for 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and charred with grill marks. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the reserved lime-cilantro mixture to use as a dressing.
5. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, add the prepared vegetables – cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, carrots, corn, bell pepper, and avocado. Top with sliced grilled chicken.
6. Dress the Salad: Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the salad. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
7. Serve: Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the salad fresh and chilled, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner option.