Name: Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-482706H58M
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); Salt and black pepper to taste; 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, arugula, or spinach); 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp honey; 1 tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re craving a healthy yet flavorful dish that’s packed with vibrant colors and bold flavors, this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad is the perfect choice. Combining smoky, zesty grilled chicken with crisp, fresh vegetables and a tangy lime dressing, this salad offers the perfect balance of heat, citrus, and crunch. The chili lime marinade gives the chicken an incredible flavor kick, while the fajita-style veggies add a smoky depth that complements the dish beautifully. Served over a bed of greens, this salad is not only a satisfying meal on its own but also a great way to enjoy a lighter take on the classic fajitas. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a dinner packed with flavor, or even a crowd-pleasing dish for a summer BBQ, this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s an easy way to enjoy all the bold flavors you love in a fajita, without the need for tortillas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor

The chili lime marinade gives the chicken a spicy, zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky, caramelized fajita vegetables.

2. Light and Healthy

Packed with fresh veggies, lean protein, and healthy fats from the avocado, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.

3. Quick and Easy

Grilling the chicken and vegetables takes just minutes, making this a quick and easy meal for busy nights.

4. Customizable

You can adjust the level of spiciness, swap out ingredients, or add toppings like cheese or sour cream to make it your own.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This salad stores well for a few days, making it an ideal option for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Chili powder
Lime juice
Olive oil
Cumin
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Bell peppers (variety of colors)
Red onion
Avocado
Mixed greens (e.g., lettuce, spinach, arugula)
Fresh cilantro
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla strips

Variations

Add a Kick: For more spice, include jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade or as a topping.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and replace it with grilled portobello mushrooms or extra beans for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
Swap the Greens: Try a base of romaine, kale, or any other leafy greens if you prefer.
Add More Veggies: Mix in corn, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers to enhance the texture and freshness of the salad.
Dressing Variations: Top with a cilantro-lime dressing or a creamy avocado dressing for extra richness and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chili powder, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is marinating, slice the bell peppers and red onion into thin strips. These will be grilled alongside the chicken to get that delicious fajita-style char.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Veggies

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). While the chicken cooks, add the bell peppers and onion to the grill. Grill the veggies for about 4-5 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

While the chicken and veggies are cooking, prepare the base of your salad by arranging mixed greens on a large plate or bowl. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and add it to the salad. Layer the grilled bell peppers and onions on top.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

Top the salad with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. For an extra touch, you can add tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese. Drizzle your favorite dressing over the top and serve immediately!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
Get a Good Char on the Veggies: For the best fajita flavor, allow the peppers and onions to develop a nice char while grilling. This adds an authentic smoky flavor.
Use Fresh Lime: Fresh lime juice provides the best flavor for the marinade and dressing. Avoid bottled lime juice if you can.
Make It Spicy: Add extra chili powder or fresh jalapeños for a spicier kick, or top with your favorite hot sauce.
Meal Prep: If you’re making this salad in advance, keep the salad base, grilled chicken, and toppings separate. Add the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.

How to Serve

This Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad is delicious on its own, but you can serve it alongside a side of chips and salsa or even warm tortillas for a more complete fajita experience. Pair it with a chilled glass of margarita or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect, summery meal. If you’re serving a crowd, you can create a DIY fajita salad bar with various toppings like cheese, sour cream, and guacamole for a fun, customizable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Keep the dressing and avocado aside to add just before serving to prevent wilting and browning.

Freezing

Grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 1 month. After grilling, slice the chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and store it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling your salad. However, the veggies and salad greens are not recommended for freezing.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If you want to warm up the grilled veggies, a quick reheat in the microwave or on the stove will do the trick.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe! They’re more flavorful and juicy, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer than breasts.

2. Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a plant-based option.

3. How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe has a mild to medium level of spice, thanks to the chili powder. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or a few jalapeño slices.

4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken and veggies in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble the salad with fresh greens and toppings just before serving.

5. How can I make this salad more filling?

Add more protein, like extra chicken, shrimp, or even black beans. You can also add a serving of quinoa or rice to make the salad more substantial.

6. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to thaw the chicken before marinating and grilling. Cooking frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking and a less tender texture.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additional toppings, like tortilla strips, are gluten-free if you plan to include them.

8. Can I skip grilling the veggies?

You can sauté the bell peppers and onions in a skillet if you prefer not to grill them, but grilling adds that perfect smoky flavor that’s key to fajita-style dishes.

9. Can I serve this salad warm?

While this salad is traditionally served cold, you can serve the chicken and veggies warm if you prefer a hot salad. Just be sure to assemble it quickly so the greens don’t wilt.

10. How do I store the dressing?

If you’re using a homemade dressing, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Always shake or stir well before using.

Conclusion

Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad is a vibrant, satisfying dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken and veggies with the freshness of crisp greens and zesty lime. It’s perfect for those who want a flavorful yet healthy meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual lunch, or even a meal prep option for the week, this salad is guaranteed to please. Customizable, delicious, and full of bold flavors, this recipe is one that will keep you coming back for more.