If you’re looking for a fresh, zesty, and protein-packed meal, Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing is a perfect choice. This salad is loaded with crisp romaine lettuce, sweet corn, black beans, juicy chicken, and a smoky, creamy chipotle dressing that ties everything together. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick lunch, this salad is satisfying, healthy, and packed with flavor.
Table of Contents
Why Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing is a Must-Try
1. Bursting with Bold Flavors
This chopped salad with chicken & creamy chipotle dressing combines smoky chipotle, tangy lime juice, and fresh cilantro, creating an irresistible flavor profile. Every bite delivers a mix of creamy, crunchy, and savory goodness.
2. High in Protein and Fiber
Thanks to shredded chicken and black beans, this salad is rich in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a fulfilling meal. The combination of lean protein and fiber helps keep you full longer.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
This recipe requires only 15 minutes of active prep time. You just chop the ingredients, blend the dressing, toss everything together, and enjoy!
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
You can store chopped salad with chicken & creamy chipotle dressing for up to three days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate and mix before serving.
How to Make the Perfect Creamy Chipotle Dressing
The star of this dish is the creamy chipotle dressing, which adds a smoky, tangy kick to the salad. It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients for Creamy Chipotle Dressing
- 2 canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce – Adds smoky heat
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base
- ¼ cup whole-milk plain strained yogurt (Greek or Skyr) – Adds richness and tanginess
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice – Enhances the zesty flavor
- 1 clove garlic, chopped – Boosts the flavor profile
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds warmth
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin – Complements the smoky taste
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances all flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend the Dressing: Combine chipotle chiles, mayonnaise, yogurt, lime juice, garlic, black pepper, cumin, and salt in a blender.
- Process Until Smooth: Blend for about 30 seconds or until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: If you want more spice, add another chipotle chile. For extra tanginess, squeeze in more lime juice.
- Store Properly: Pour the dressing into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days.
This creamy chipotle dressing enhances the flavors of your chopped salad with chicken, making it even more delicious.
Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Chopped Chicken Salad
To make a chopped salad with chicken & creamy chipotle dressing, you’ll need a balance of fresh, crunchy, and protein-packed ingredients.
Salad Ingredients
- 10 cups chopped romaine lettuce – Provides a crisp base
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped – Adds sweetness and crunch
- 2 small ears of corn, husked and kernels cut from cobs – Brings a natural sweetness
- ½ cup chopped red onion – Adds a sharp bite
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro – Offers freshness
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed – Increases fiber and protein
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken – The main protein source
- 2 medium avocados, chopped – Adds creaminess and healthy fats
Step-by-Step Recipe for Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing
1. Prep the Ingredients
- Rinse and chop the romaine lettuce.
- Dice the red bell pepper and red onion.
- Husk the corn and slice off the kernels.
- Drain and rinse the black beans.
- Shred the cooked chicken.
- Chop the fresh cilantro.
- Peel and cube the avocado.
2. Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, red bell pepper, corn kernels, red onion, black beans, and cilantro.
- Drizzle the creamy chipotle dressing over the salad.
- Toss everything together to coat evenly.
3. Add the Protein and Healthy Fats
- Divide the salad among six serving bowls.
- Top each serving with shredded chicken and chopped avocado.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- Pair with tortilla chips or a side of quinoa for extra crunch and nutrients.
Tips for Storing and Serving Chopped Salad with Chicken
How to Store Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing
- Refrigerate Properly: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Keep the Dressing Separate: To prevent the lettuce from getting soggy, store the creamy chipotle dressing separately and mix before serving.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: If making in advance, add the avocado just before serving to keep it from browning.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the salad in a large bowl for family-style meals.
- Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or whole-wheat tortillas.
- Add some crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese for extra flavor.
Nutrition Table for Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 424 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
This chopped salad with chicken & creamy chipotle dressing is high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and balanced meal.
FAQs About Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing
1. Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the chicken with grilled tofu, chickpeas, or extra black beans for a plant-based alternative.
2. How spicy is the creamy chipotle dressing?
The dressing has a mild smoky heat, but you can adjust it by adding more or fewer chipotle chiles.
3. What other proteins can I use?
Instead of chicken, try grilled shrimp, salmon, or turkey for variety.
4. Can I use store-bought dressing?
While homemade creamy chipotle dressing is best, you can use a store-bought version if you’re short on time. Look for a smoky chipotle ranch or southwest dressing.
5. How do I keep the salad fresh for meal prep?
Keep the salad components in separate containers and mix them just before serving. Store avocado separately to prevent browning.
Final Thoughts
Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky dressing, crisp veggies, and protein-rich chicken, this salad is both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick lunch, this salad will quickly become a favorite.
Try this chopped salad with chicken & creamy chipotle dressing today and enjoy a delicious blend of bold flavors!
