Summer Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad
This delightful Summer Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad boasts a combination of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Imagine a harmonious blend of succulent chicken infused with the smoky allure of chipotle seasoning. Picture a vibrant medley of strawberries and blueberries dancing with creamy avocado on a bed of crisp mixed greens. It’s the ultimate summer salad that will leave you craving for more!
What makes this salad healthy?
Indulging in this summer salad brings a myriad of benefits. The blend of fresh fruits and vegetables provides a burst of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to your overall well-being. The smoky and savory notes of the chipotle chicken create a truly satisfying experience for your palate. Moreover, with its simplicity and versatility, this salad brings joy and convenience to your cooking routine, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunny season.
Why you’ll love this recipe
What sets this Summer Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s the ideal dish for your next BBQ or potluck gathering, impressing your friends and family with its vibrant presentation. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a healthy choice that will satisfy your taste buds without weighing you down. Plus, it’s a breeze to put together, making it a go-to option for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a delicious meal.
Get ready to elevate your summer dining experience with this delectable Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad recipe. It’s an easy, healthy, and flavor-packed dish that will impress your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Let’s dive into the recipe and savor the vibrant flavors of the season!
RELATED: Classic Cobb Salad
Ingredients for this healthy summer salad
FOR THE CHICKEN
- Olive oil
- Chipotle chili powder
- Garlic powder
- Ground cumin
- Dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Chicken tenders
FOR THE SALAD
- Mixed greens
- Fresh corn, kernels only
- Red onion, halved and sliced thin
- Avocado, sliced
- Strawberries, halved
- Blueberries
FOR THE DRESSING
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Olive oil
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Small limes, juiced (about ¼ cup)
- Honey, optional but recommended
- Minced garlic
- Ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper
Be sure to check out the full ingredient list and printable recipe in the recipe card below.
How to make this salad
Here’s how to make the Chipotle Chicken
- In a gallon size freezer bag, mix the oil and seasonings.
- Add the chicken tenders to the bag and massage the bag until all of the chicken is coated.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Prepare a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Transfer the chicken tenders to the prepared dish and place in a single layer.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until cooked through.
Here’s how to make the Cilantro Lime Dressing
- Place the ingredients into a food processor or blender.
- Blend until the dressing is smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Here’s how to make the Summer Cobb Salad
- Place the salad greens into a serving dish or individual salad bowls and arrange the other ingredients over the greens.
- Top the salads with the cooked chicken.
- Serve with the dressing.
Make this Chipotle Chicken Summer Cobb Salad recipe, then check out my Classic Cobb Salad, Summer Corn Salad and Classic Broccoli Cheese Salad with Bacon and more of my healthy summer salad recipes.
TIPS AND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
How to make the chipotle chicken by grilling on a BBQ
Grilling chicken on a barbecue is a fantastic way to infuse it with smoky flavors while achieving a delicious charred exterior and juicy interior. Follow these steps to cook chicken on a grill:
- Preheat the grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken with your desired marinade or dry rub. Ensure that the chicken is at room temperature before placing it on the grill. This allows for more even cooking.
- Oil the grill grates: To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a brush or spray. This will also help create those desirable grill marks.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the preheated grill. For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once. For bone-in pieces, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks, grill for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Monitor the temperature: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the meat. It should register 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy final product.
Now you have perfectly grilled chicken ready to be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various recipes like the tantalizing Chipotle Chicken Cobb Salad. Happy grilling!
How to make a custom Summer Cobb Salad
Customizing a Summer Chipotle Cobb Salad allows you to tailor it to your personal preferences and incorporate ingredients you love. Here are some ideas to inspire your customization:
- Protein options: While the traditional recipe calls for chipotle chicken, feel free to experiment with other protein choices. Grilled shrimp, sliced steak, or even tofu can be delicious alternatives. Season them with your favorite marinades or spices to add a personal touch.
- Vegetables: Expand the veggie medley in your salad by adding more fresh produce. Consider including roasted corn kernels, diced bell peppers, or sliced cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor. You can also incorporate grilled zucchini or asparagus for a smoky twist.
- Fruit variations: Enhance the fruity sweetness by incorporating additional summer fruits. Try adding chunks of ripe mango, tangy pineapple, or juicy watermelon to add a burst of tropical flavors. The combination of savory and sweet elements will elevate the salad to new heights.
- Cheese options: Experiment with different types of cheese to bring unique flavors and textures. Traditional options like crumbled blue cheese or feta can provide a tangy kick, while creamy goat cheese or shredded cheddar can offer a milder profile. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
- Crunchy toppings: Boost the salad’s texture by incorporating additional crunchy elements. Consider adding toasted nuts, such as almonds or pecans, or sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top. These toppings will provide a delightful contrast to the other ingredients.
- Dressing variations: While the chipotle dressing is a classic choice, you can switch things up by trying different dressings. Experiment with a zesty lime vinaigrette, a creamy avocado dressing, or a balsamic glaze. Choose a dressing that complements your customized ingredients.
Remember, the beauty of customization lies in your creativity and personal taste. Don’t be afraid to mix and match ingredients to create a Summer Chipotle Cobb Salad that reflects your preferences and culinary imagination. Enjoy the process of making it your own!
How to store this salad
Properly storing your Chipotle Chicken Summer Cobb Salad will help maintain its freshness and flavor. Follow these steps to store it effectively:
- Separate dressing and toppings: Store the dressing separately in an airtight container. The same goes for the delicate toppings like avocado slices and the fresh berries. Keeping them separate prevents sogginess and maintains their integrity.
- Store in airtight containers: Transfer the remaining salad components, including the mixed greens and chipotle chicken, to separate airtight containers. Make sure the containers have a tight seal to prevent air exposure and maintain freshness.
- Keep refrigerated: Place the airtight containers in the refrigerator as soon as possible. The colder temperature will slow down bacterial growth and keep your salad safe to eat.
- Use within a few days: For best quality and taste, consume the salad within 2-3 days of preparation. The ingredients may start to wilt or lose their texture beyond this time frame.
- Assemble just before serving: When you’re ready to enjoy the salad, remove the ingredients from the refrigerator. Reassemble the components, including the dressing and toppings, just before serving. This will ensure the salad retains its freshness and presentation.
By following these storage guidelines, you can extend the shelf life of your Chipotle Chicken Summer Cobb Salad and continue to savor its delightful flavors and textures.
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Other easy summer salad recipes to try
- Easy Farro Summer Salad – fresh grape tomatoes, cucumbers, basil from your garden and tasty vinaigrette is a perfect, easy meal prep idea or potluck side dish.
- Summer Peach Salad with Fresh Mint Dressing – Featuring seasonal peaches, blueberries, avocado, red onions and blue cheese, this summer salad is perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Easy Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad – packed with fresh summer vegetables like fresh seasonal corn, radishes, zucchini, heirloom tomatoes straight from the Farmer’s Market or even from your garden – it’s coated with a simple dressing, making a tasty side dish.
Summer Chipotle Cobb Salad Recipe
With each forkful of this Summer Chipotle Cobb Salad, you'll experience a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors, all dancing together in perfect harmony. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the season and is sure to become a highlight of your summer menu. Embrace the essence of summer with this exceptional salad that will take your taste buds on a culinary adventure.
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
For the salad
- 1 (5 ounce) package mixed greens
- 2 ears fresh corn, kernels only
- ½ red onion, halved and sliced thin
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup strawberries, halved
- 1 cup blueberries
For the dressing
- 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 small limes, juiced (about ¼ cup)
- 2 teaspoons honey, optional but recommended
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
For the chicken:
- In a gallon size freezer bag, mix the oil and seasonings.
- Add the chicken tenders to the bag and massage the bag until all of the chicken is coated.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Prepare a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Transfer the chicken tenders to the prepared dish and place in a single layer.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until cooked through.
For the dressing:
- Place the ingredients into a food processor or blender.
- Blend until the dressing is smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
For the salad:
- Place the salad greens into a serving dish or individual salad bowls and arrange the other ingredients over the greens.
- Top the salads with the cooked chicken.
- Serve with the dressing.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 778Total Fat: 51gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 39gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 1436mgCarbohydrates: 52gFiber: 7gSugar: 9gProtein: 33g
The provided nutrition information is an estimate and it does not take brands into account. I use an automatic API to calculate this information.