Blackened Chicken Salad

This Blackened Chicken Salad with avocado is a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. With tender chicken coated in bold spices, fresh veggies, and creamy avocado, this salad is the perfect option for lunch or dinner. It’s quick to prepare, low in calories, and packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any healthy eating plan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a delicious combination of smoky, spicy chicken and cool, creamy avocado. The blackened chicken brings bold flavors to the table, while the fresh salad ingredients add a refreshing crunch. The addition of avocado makes the dish more filling and adds a smooth, buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the spice. Plus, it’s an easy, one-pan dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Blackened Chicken:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)

• ½ teaspoon powdered chicken stock (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Pinch of salt and fresh cracked pepper

For the Avocado Salad:

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 avocados, diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (fresh or dried)

• Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste

• Parmesan shavings (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken:

In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin (if using), powdered chicken stock (if using), salt, pepper, and olive oil. Coat the chicken breasts with this spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated on both sides.

Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and cook the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked through, depending on the thickness. If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and slice it into ½-inch strips.

2. Prepare the Salad:

In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped onion. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together gently to combine.

3. Assemble the Salad:

Once the chicken is sliced, place it on top of the salad. If desired, sprinkle with optional Parmesan shavings for extra flavor.

4. Serve:

Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, protein-packed meal. For added flavor, you can drizzle with a little apple cider vinegar dressing or your favorite salad dressing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: For extra crunch, add cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots to the salad.

• Grilled Chicken: If you prefer, you can grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet for a different flavor.

• Add Spices: If you like a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the salad or the dressing.

• Low-Carb: For a low-carb option, skip the Parmesan and go without any dressing for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• This salad is best served fresh, as the avocado may brown over time. To prevent browning, you can store the avocado separately and add it just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use chicken thighs or tenders instead of breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I make this salad spicier?

To add more heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes, drizzle with hot sauce, or add a diced jalapeño to the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and the lettuce crisp.

Can I use a different protein in this salad?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even a hard-boiled egg for a different protein source.

How can I store leftover blackened chicken?

You can store leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave, and add it back into the salad when ready to eat.

Conclusion

This Blackened Chicken Salad is the perfect meal for anyone craving a healthy, flavorful dish that’s both light and satisfying. The combination of blackened chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy avocado makes for a refreshing meal that’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and tons of flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, this is the perfect option for a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week!