Meal prep-friendly Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad with copycat Chipotle Vinaigrette is a delightful dish you can enjoy on various occasions. This salad is not only packed with nutritious ingredients but also features a spicy, bold dressing that makes it super filling and flavorful. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or hosting a gathering, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and zesty taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes each bite delicious.
• Nutritious Ingredients: With chicken, beans, and veggies, this salad offers a healthy balance of protein and fiber.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; it suits any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: Quick cooking time means you can whip this up in no time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad, having the right tools will simplify the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Blender or immersion blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Blender or immersion blender: This tool is essential for creating a smooth, well-mixed vinaigrette.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all your fresh ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

Meal prep-friendly Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad with copycat Chipotle Vinaigrette. This fabulous salad is packed with nutritious ingredients and a spicy, bold dressing – super filling and flavorful!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (I prefer using thighs)
• 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning (I use Siete brand)

For the Salad

• 4 to 5 cups chopped or shaved red cabbage
• 1 (15-oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup frozen fire-roasted corn, thawed
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium ripe avocado, cubed
• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija or queso fresco
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional for serving: tortilla chips (crumbled overtop or used as scoopers to eat bites of salad)

For the Chipotle Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup avocado oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 1 chipotle chili pepper (from a can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken

Place chicken in a large bowl and add extra-virgin olive oil and taco seasoning. Toss well to coat. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, arrange chicken in pan and cook undisturbed for 5 minutes. Flip and cook another 4 to 5 minutes, depending on thickness, until the juices run clear and chicken is cooked through. Transfer to a plate and allow to slightly cool.

Step 2: Prepare Chipotle Vinaigrette

Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender or immersion blender cup. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble Salad

In a large bowl, combine cabbage, black beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, crumbled cheese, and cilantro. Cut chicken into small pieces and add to the bowl. Add dressing and toss well to combine. Serve with crumbled tortilla chips over top or use chips to scoop up bites of salad if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad!

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

This Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. There are several ways to enjoy this flavorful dish that can elevate your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

• A filling option: Serve the salad as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner. The protein from the chicken and beans makes it satisfying enough.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy texture: Crumble tortilla chips over the top for added crunch or use them as scoops to enjoy every bite of the salad.

With Extra Dressing

• For added flavor: Drizzle more of the chipotle vinaigrette on top just before serving for an extra punch of flavor.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Convenient choice: Divide the salad into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Pair with Grilled Vegetables

• Delicious side: Serve alongside grilled veggies for a smoky flavor contrast that complements the salad’s spices.

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How to Perfect Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

To make your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad truly standout, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture. Opt for ripe avocados, crisp cabbage, and vibrant bell peppers.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more or less chipotle pepper in the dressing. Taste as you go!
• Marinate Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate chicken in olive oil and taco seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after mixing. This melds flavors together beautifully.
• Add Variety: Feel free to throw in other toppings like sliced jalapeños or diced tomatoes for additional layers of flavor.
• Store Separately: If making ahead, store dressing and salad components separately to keep everything fresh until serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad can enhance your meal further. Here are some tasty options:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds a sweet and spicy touch.
2. Guacamole and Chips: Classic avocado dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips; creamy and flavorful.
3. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the bold flavors of the salad.
4. Black Bean Soup: A warm bowl of black bean soup makes a comforting addition with earthy tones that match well.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp skewers offer a delightful protein option alongside the salad.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with cumin bring sweetness and heartiness to balance out your meal.
7. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to each bite.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the spicy elements of the salad.

Enjoy creating meals around your flavorful Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a salad might seem straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using bland ingredients: Many people overlook the importance of seasoning. Use taco seasoning and fresh herbs to enhance flavors.
• Neglecting the dressing: A great salad needs a tasty dressing. Don’t skip on making the Chipotle Vinaigrette; it ties everything together.
• Cutting veggies too large: Large pieces can make salads difficult to eat. Chop ingredients into bite-sized pieces for better texture and ease of eating.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Cook until just done, allowing it to remain juicy and tender.
• Not balancing textures: A salad should have crunch, creaminess, and chewiness. Ensure you include ingredients like crispy cabbage, creamy avocado, and hearty beans.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

• item It is not recommended to freeze this salad as fresh vegetables do not thaw well.
• item If freezing the chicken, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

• item Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through.
• item Microwave: Heat chicken in 30-second intervals until hot; avoid overheating which can make it dry.
• item Stovetop: Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad.

How do I make the Chipotle Vinaigrette?

To make the vinaigrette, blend avocado oil, red wine vinegar, honey, chipotle chili pepper, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Can I use other proteins in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.

Is Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad healthy?

Absolutely! This salad is packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from black beans and vegetables.

How can I customize my Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients like cheese or beans based on personal preference.

What goes well with Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or served alongside grilled corn for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

The Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and perfect for meal prep! You can customize it with your favorite toppings or proteins. Try it today for a healthy and satisfying meal!

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Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Spice up your meal prep with this vibrant Chipotle Chicken Chopped Salad, featuring a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and a bold copycat Chipotle Vinaigrette.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts)
• 4–5 cups chopped red cabbage
• 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
• 1 cup frozen fire-roasted corn
• 1 diced red bell pepper
• 1 cubed avocado
• 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/2 cup avocado oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 1 chipotle chili pepper
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Season chicken with olive oil and taco seasoning. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until cooked through.
2. In a blender, combine all vinaigrette ingredients and blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, mix cabbage, beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, cheese, and cilantro. Add the sliced chicken and dressing; toss to combine.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet/Blending
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 13g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor depth, marinate the chicken in seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chipotle pepper used in the vinaigrette. Store salad components separately if making ahead to keep everything fresh.