Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken Salad
This Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken Salad is a bold and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Juicy grilled chicken is marinated in a spicy, tangy Sriracha lime sauce and served over crisp greens with a drizzle of homemade dressing. It’s fresh, vibrant, and sure to please your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Salad
- Bold Flavors: A perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory.
- Healthy: Packed with protein, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad
While the chicken rests, assemble the salad. In a large bowl or on a platter, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and avocado.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, Sriracha sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your zesty and refreshing Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken Salad!
Tips for Success
- Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavors will be.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Crisp veggies and ripe avocado make this salad shine.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- A refreshing iced tea or lemonade
- A light soup for a complete meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies in advance, but wait to assemble the salad and add the dressing until just before serving.
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or grilled steak are great alternatives to chicken.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.