Print

Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe

dipping a tortilla chip into a bowl of Mexican chicken salad
Print Recipe

Mexican chicken salad (or ensalada de pollo, as it’s called in Spanish) is a colorful mix of shredded chicken, creamy dressing, fresh veggies, and often a little kick of spice. It’s kind of like a fiesta in a bowl.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • Chicken: Cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works like magic).
  • Veggies: Corn, peas, carrots, and diced potatoes for that classic touch.
  • Red Onion: For a sharp, tangy crunch.
  • Cilantro: Optional, but it adds a burst of freshness.
  • Jalapeños: For those who like a little heat.

For the Dressing:

  • Mayonnaise: The creamy base.
  • Sour Cream: Lightens the mayo and adds tang.
  • Lime Juice: Brings all the flavors together.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

Shred that chicken like your life depends on it. Just kidding—but really, make it fine so it blends well with the other ingredients. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, it saves you tons of time (and tastes amazing).

2. Cook the Veggies

Boil diced potatoes, carrots, and peas until tender but not mushy. You want them to hold their shape. Drain them well—no one likes a watery salad.

3. Mix the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and spices. Taste it—this is your chance to adjust the salt or spice level.

4. Combine It All

Toss the shredded chicken, cooked veggies, corn, red onion, and dressing in a large bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated. Pro tip: Chill it in the fridge for at least an hour. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

5. Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle some chopped cilantro or a few slices of jalapeño on top for that Instagram-worthy look.

Notes

  • Let it Chill: This salad is best served cold, so don’t skip the refrigeration step.
  • Season in Layers: Add salt and lime juice to the chicken and veggies before mixing in the dressing for extra flavor.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and crisp veggies make all the difference.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Chicken Salad, Creamy Mexican chicken salad, Easy Mexican chicken salad

Find it online: https://recipesandchill.com/mexican-chicken-salad/