Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad

There’s something truly invigorating about a fresh, zesty Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad on a warm summer day. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a spontaneous decision after a long day spent outdoors. The sun was setting, and I craved something vibrant and flavorful. I rushed to the kitchen, excited to whip up a salad that would not only satisfy my hunger but also bring a burst of color to my table. The aroma of grilled chicken mingling with the fresh bell peppers and lime juice filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer flavors!

What’s In This Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad

The ingredients in this Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad come together beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. From the crunchy Romaine lettuce to the tender grilled chicken, each ingredient has a role in making this dish unforgettable. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

• 1/4 cup olive oil – Adds a rich flavor and helps in marinating the chicken.
• 1/4 cup lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a zesty kick.
• 1/4 cup orange juice – Enhances the sweetness and balances the acidity.
• Zest of 1 lime – Intensifies the lime flavor in the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons cilantro – Adds a fresh herbal note.
• 4 cloves garlic – Minced, for an aromatic depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Gives a hint of heat.
• 2 teaspoons Fajita seasoning – The star of the show for seasoning the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for flavor.
• 2 medium chicken breasts – The protein base of the salad.
• 1 yellow bell pepper – Sweet and vibrant.
• 1 red bell pepper – Adds color and sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper – Provides a crunchy texture.
• 1 red onion – Sliced for crispness and flavor.
• 6 cups Romaine lettuce – The crunchy base of the salad.
• 2 avocados – Creamy and rich, elevating the dish.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – For a creamy dressing.
• 1/4 cup mayo – Adds richness to the dressing.
• 2 tablespoons lime juice – For dressing, adds freshness.
• 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves – For garnish and added flavor.

Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad Instructions

Making this Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad is like a fun culinary adventure. Start by prepping your marinade and chicken, then move on to grilling the veggies, and finally, assembling your salad. Let’s dive right in!

1. In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic, honey, red pepper flakes, Fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt until fully combined. The mixture should be aromatic and vibrant.
2. Add the two chicken breasts to the marinade. Make a few piercings in the chicken with a fork to allow the flavors to penetrate. Ensure that the chicken is fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours. This step is crucial for flavor infusion.
3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dressing. In a food processor, combine the sour cream, mayo, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. This dressing will complement the salad beautifully.
4. Once marinated, heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking. When the grill is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Grill them for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy. To check for doneness, cut into the center of the chicken; it should be no longer pink.
5. After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a plate. Cover with foil and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken tender.
6. Next, add a little more oil to the grill or pan and toss in the bell peppers and onion slices. Grill them for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are soft with a slight char, yet still retain some crunch.
7. Once grilled, remove the veggies from the heat. Slice the rested chicken into strips. You can do this while the veggies are cooking to save time.
8. To assemble your salad, take a large serving platter or divide the Romaine lettuce among four plates. Arrange the grilled chicken and veggies artfully on top.
9. Add sliced avocado to each plate. Drizzle the creamy dressing generously over the salad and garnish with extra cilantro leaves. It’s all about presentation!
10. Finally, serve your Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer on your plate!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add some variety to your Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad, here are some fun ideas:

• Add Different Proteins: Feel free to swap the grilled chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu to suit your dietary preferences!
• Change the Greens: Instead of Romaine, try using spinach or mixed greens for a different flavor and texture.
• Additional Toppings: Consider adding black beans, corn, or cheese for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or a spicy chipotle dressing to kick things up a notch.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different marinades using different herbs or citrus fruits like orange and lemon.
• Serving Style: This salad can be served in a taco shell or over rice for a different meal experience.

Side Dish Ideas for Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad

When it comes to serving your Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad, consider these delightful side dish ideas:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn complements the smoky flavors of the salad.
• Rice and Beans: A side of cilantro-lime rice or black beans adds heartiness and pairs perfectly.
• Chips and Salsa: Serve with some tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a crunchy contrast.
• Guacamole: Enhance the avocado flavor by serving with a side of homemade guacamole.
• Watermelon Salad: A refreshing watermelon salad with feta and mint offers a sweet and savory balance.
• Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers make for a delightful refreshing dessert after the meal.
• Grilled Veggies: A medley of grilled vegetables can make a great accompaniment to the salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad is truly a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re having a casual lunch or hosting a summer gathering, this salad is sure to impress. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the refreshing taste for yourself!

Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad

Craving something fresh and vibrant? This Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad is bursting with flavors from grilled chicken, zesty lime, and colorful peppers. It's a healthy, easy weeknight dinner that you'll want to make time and time again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lime juice freshly squeezed
• 1/4 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
• Zest of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons cilantro finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons Fajita seasoning or taco seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 medium chicken breasts skinless/boneless
• 1 yellow bell pepper deseeded and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper deseeded and sliced
• 1 green bell pepper deseeded and sliced
• 1 red onion sliced
• 6 cups Romaine lettuce or lettuce leaves - washed and dried
• 2 avocados sliced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayo
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves chopped

Equipment

• Whisk
• Food Processor
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic, honey, red pepper flakes, Fajita seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt until fully combined. The mixture should be aromatic and vibrant.
2. Add the two chicken breasts to the marinade. Make a few piercings in the chicken with a fork to allow the flavors to penetrate. Ensure that the chicken is fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours. This step is crucial for flavor infusion.
3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dressing. In a food processor, combine the sour cream, mayo, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until smooth and creamy, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. This dressing will complement the salad beautifully.
4. Once marinated, heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking. When the grill is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts. Grill them for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and crispy. To check for doneness, cut into the center of the chicken; it should be no longer pink.
5. After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a plate. Cover with foil and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken tender.
6. Next, add a little more oil to the grill or pan and toss in the bell peppers and onion slices. Grill them for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are soft with a slight char, yet still retain some crunch.
7. Once grilled, remove the veggies from the heat. Slice the rested chicken into strips. You can do this while the veggies are cooking to save time.
8. To assemble your salad, take a large serving platter or divide the Romaine lettuce among four plates. Arrange the grilled chicken and veggies artfully on top.
9. Add sliced avocado to each plate. Drizzle the creamy dressing generously over the salad and garnish with extra cilantro leaves. It’s all about presentation!
10. Finally, serve your Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer on your plate!

Notes

• Marinating Time Matters: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more intense the flavor. Try to aim for at least 1 hour, but marinating overnight makes it even better.
• Grilling Technique: Ensure your grill is preheated properly to avoid sticking. A good sear will add depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Crunch: When grilling the veggies, keep an eye on them. You want them tender but with a nice crunch still intact.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and produce can elevate the flavor profile of your salad significantly. Always opt for fresh over canned or frozen.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.