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Loaded Chicken Taco Salad with Creamy Lime-Cilantro Dressing

Loaded Chicken Taco Salad with Creamy Lime-Cilantro Dressing

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Elevate your dinner game with this Loaded Chicken Taco Salad with Creamy Lime-Cilantro Dressing! This vibrant salad combines all the beloved flavors of tacos in a hearty, fresh bowl that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Imagine tender chicken seasoned to perfection, paired with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together. Quick to prepare and effortlessly customizable, this dish allows everyone to create their ideal taco-inspired salad. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, each bite bursts with flavor and satisfaction.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1.25-ounce packet taco seasoning (divided; I use reduced sodium, medium heat)
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce
  • 1 or 2 medium tomatoes (diced; I use vine-ripened)
  • 1/2 cup canned corn (drained; fresh or frozen may be substituted)
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 medium Hass avocado (peeled and diced)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (I use a Monterey Jack and cheddar blend)
  • 1 cup seasoned tortilla chips (crushed; I crush Doritos in my palm)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (lite okay)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (lite okay; plain Greek yogurt may be substituted)
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons lime juice (or as necessary for flavor and consistency)
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves (minced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional and to taste)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with taco seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. On a large platter, layer romaine lettuce as the base, then top with diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado, cheese, crushed tortilla chips, and cooked chicken.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, and minced cilantro until smooth. Adjust lime juice for desired consistency.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.

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