Easy Chipotle Chicken Salad : Spicy, Creamy & Delicious

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying salad? This Easy Chipotle Chicken Salad is packed with smoky spice, creamy texture, and a delicious kick from chipotle peppers! Whether you need a quick lunch, meal prep option, or sandwich filling, this salad is incredibly versatile and comes together in just minutes.

Made with shredded chicken, Greek yogurt (or mayo), lime juice, and chipotle seasoning, this salad offers the perfect balance of creaminess and heat. You can serve it in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, on top of greens, or enjoy it straight from the bowl.

For those who love bold, Tex-Mex-inspired flavors, this chipotle chicken salad recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and high in protein, making it a healthy and satisfying choice.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.
Full of Flavor: Smoky chipotle peppers add a delicious kick.
Healthy & High-Protein: A nutritious meal that keeps you full longer.
Versatile: Enjoy in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or on its own.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Ingredients:

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
½ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp honey
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Equipment Used:

Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Spoon or spatula
Food processor (optional for smoother consistency)

Directions & Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Shred the cooked chicken and finely chop the chipotle peppers, red onion, and cilantro.
Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayo), chipotle peppers, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Combine Everything: Add the shredded chicken, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl. Stir until the chicken is fully coated in the chipotle dressing.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, spice, or lime juice as needed.
Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 180
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fats: 7g
Fiber: 1g

This chipotle chicken salad is high in protein and lower in carbs, making it a great option for a healthy, satisfying meal.

Prep Time and Cook Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations:

Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free mayo.
Extra Spicy: Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
Avocado Version: Mash in half an avocado for extra creaminess.
Crunchy Twist: Add diced celery or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken has a better texture.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes! It’s low in carbs and high in protein.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Try it in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, tortillas, or over a bed of greens.

Pro Tips By Lynda:

Use Fresh Lime Juice: Enhances flavor and balances spice.
Shred Chicken Finely: Helps absorb the dressing for a better texture.
Chill Before Serving: Allows flavors to meld together.
Add Extra Crunch: Try chopped nuts or crispy bacon bits.

Serving Suggestions:

In a Sandwich: Layer with lettuce and tomato on toasted bread.
Lettuce Wraps: A low-carb, fresh way to enjoy this dish.
With Crackers or Veggies: Serve as a dip for an appetizer.
Over a Salad: Spoon it over fresh greens for a protein-packed meal.