Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a recipe that's about to become your new obsession! This Mango Avocado Spiced Chicken Salad is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines the creamy richness of avocado, the sweet tropical punch of mango, and perfectly seasoned chicken in one irresistible dish. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe promises to transport your palate to a culinary paradise with every single bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. If not already cooked, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the chili powder. Grill or pan-cook the chicken until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 6-8 minutes per side.
- Allow the cooked chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes, then use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Let the shredded chicken cool to room temperature.
- While the chicken is cooling, dice the ripe mango and avocado into small, uniform cubes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the red onion and fresh cilantro. Add these to the bowl with the mango and avocado.
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the diced fruits and vegetables.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture. Sprinkle the remaining chili powder, and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring even distribution of flavors without mashing the avocado.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a light lunch or dinner, optionally on a bed of mixed greens or with tortilla chips.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Ensure your chicken is cooked to exactly 165°F to keep it juicy and safe to eat. Let it rest after cooking to retain maximum moisture.
- Avocado Hack: Choose a ripe but firm avocado and dice it just before mixing to prevent browning. If preparing in advance, you can add a little extra lime juice to slow oxidation.
- Flavor Intensification: For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting your chili powder in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding it to the salad. This will enhance its depth and aroma.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. Prepare it the night before for an even more delicious meal.
- Serving Suggestions: For added texture, consider serving over crisp mixed greens or with crunchy tortilla chips. You can also wrap it in a fresh tortilla for a quick and delicious wrap.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the amount; for heat lovers, add a dash of cayenne.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 95mg
