Zesty Mexican-Style Chicken and Avocado Salad

This vibrant and refreshing Zesty Mexican-Style Chicken and Avocado Salad is the perfect dish to liven up your meal. Packed with flavors from juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch or a summer dinner, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will satisfy your palate.

Ingredients###
Salad:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, cooked)
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing:
– 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions###

1. Marinate the Chicken:
– In a small bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
– Rub the mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated.
– Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Cook the Chicken:
– Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
– Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
– Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

3. Prepare the Salad:
– In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black beans, corn, diced avocado, and cilantro.

4. Make the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

5. Assemble the Salad:
– Add the grilled chicken strips to the salad bowl.
– Drizzle with the lime dressing and toss well to combine.

6. Serve:
– Serve immediately, ensuring each plate gets a balanced mix of chicken, avocado, and veggies.
– Enjoy your Zesty Mexican-Style Chicken and Avocado Salad!

This salad is a feast for the senses, offering a perfect blend of zesty, creamy, and crunchy elements that make every bite a delight.