Name: Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For Marinade/Dressing:; 3 tbsp olive oil; 100 ml lime juice; 2 tbsp cilantro; 2 garlic cloves; 1 tsp brown sugar; ¾ tsp red chili flakes; ½ tsp cumin; 1 tsp salt; For Salad:; 4 chicken thigh fillets; ½ yellow bell pepper; ½ red bell pepper; ½ onion; 5 cups Romaine lettuce leaves; 2 avocados; Extra cilantro leaves; sour cream

Experience a burst of vibrant flavors with this grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad. Combining the zestiness of lime juice and the heat of red chili flakes, this dish brings a tantalizing twist to your traditional salad. Perfect for a light but satisfying meal.

grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad recipe

Photos of Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe, like red chili flakes and cilantro, might not be common in every kitchen. If you’re heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick these up along with lime juice which adds a unique zing to the dish.

Ingredients For Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps in grilling the chicken and vegetables.

Lime juice: Provides a tangy flavor that enhances the marinade.

Cilantro: Offers a fresh and slightly citrusy taste.

Garlic cloves: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the marinade.

Brown sugar: Balances the acidity of lime juice with a hint of sweetness.

Red chili flakes: Brings a spicy kick to the dressing.

Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the marinade.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Chicken thigh fillets: The protein base of the salad, juicy and flavorful.

Yellow bell pepper: Adds a sweet and colorful crunch.

Red bell pepper: Complements the yellow bell pepper with a different kind of sweetness.

Onion: Provides a slightly sharp and sweet flavor.

Romaine lettuce leaves: Forms the crisp base of the salad.

Avocados: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Extra cilantro leaves: For additional garnish and flavor.

Sour cream: Optional, for a creamy and tangy finish.

One reader, Ennis Pollard says:

This grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad is a flavor explosion! The marinade is zesty and the chicken turns out perfectly juicy. The fresh veggies and creamy avocado make it a refreshing, satisfying meal. Highly recommend!

Ennis Pollard

Key Techniques for Making Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

How to whisk marinade ingredients: Combine the olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, brown sugar, red chili flakes, cumin, and salt in a bowl and whisk until well mixed.

How to marinate chicken: Place the chicken thigh fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours if time allows.

How to grill chicken fillets: Heat about 1 teaspoon of oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken fillets on each side until they are golden, crispy, and cooked through.

How to fry pepper and onion strips: After cooking the chicken, wipe the pan with a paper towel. Drizzle another teaspoon of oil into the pan and fry the pepper and onion strips until they reach the desired level of doneness.

How to slice chicken: Once the chicken is cooked and has rested, slice it into strips.

How to prepare salad: Arrange the romaine lettuce leaves, avocado slices, cooked pepper and onion strips, and sliced chicken on a plate. Drizzle with the remaining marinade/dressing and serve with optional extra cilantro leaves and sour cream.

How To Make Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

For this chicken fajita salad, tender cuts of chicken are marinated in a spicy and tart chili lime concoction, then grilled and mixed with fresh veggies.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Marinate Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Marinade/Dressing:

3tbspolive oil
100mllime juice,freshly squeezed
2tbspcilantro,chopped
2garlic cloves,crushed
1tspbrown sugar
¾tspred chili flakes,or red pepper flakes
½tspcumin,ground
1tspsalt

For Salad:

4chickenthigh fillets,skin removed, no bone
½yellow bell pepper,deseeded and sliced
½red bell pepper,deseeded and sliced
½onion,sliced
5cupsRomaine lettuce leaves,or cos, washed and dried
2avocados,sliced
Extra cilantro leaves,to garnish
Sour cream,optional to serve

Instructions

Whisk marinade ingredients together to combine. Pour half the marinade into a shallow dish to marinate the chicken fillets for 2 hours if time allows. Refrigerate the reserved untouched marinade to use as a dressing.
Heat about 1 teaspoon of oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and grill chicken fillets on each side until golden, crispy and cooked through.
Once chicken is cooked, set aside and allow to rest.
Wipe pan over with paper towel; drizzle with another teaspoon of oil and fry pepper and onion strips until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Slice chicken into strips and prepare salad with leaves, avocado slices, peppers, onion strips and chicken. Drizzle with remaining marinade/dressing and serve with (optional) extra cilantro leaves and sour cream.

Nutrition

Calories: 718.76kcal
Fat: 57.37g
Saturated Fat: 12.33g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 30.70g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.74g
Carbohydrates: 18.73g
Fiber: 9.15g
Sugar: 3.92g
Protein: 35.57g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 755.14mg
Calcium: 65.87mg
Potassium: 1204.83mg
Iron: 3.04mg
Vitamin A: 357.72µg
Vitamin C: 85.11mg

Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

To ensure your chicken is both flavorful and tender, make sure to marinate it for the full 2 hours. The acidity from the lime juice in the marinade helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender, while the olive oil and cilantro infuse it with rich, aromatic flavors.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe

Marinate in advance: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-chop vegetables: Slice the bell peppers and onion ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-washed lettuce: Opt for pre-washed romaine lettuce to cut down on prep time.

Double the marinade: Make extra marinade to use for other meals during the week.

Quick cook chicken: Use thin chicken fillets to reduce cooking time on the grill.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and provides a mild flavor that complements the marinade.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro in the marinade.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps to balance the acidity of the lime juice.
red chili flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level and can be used in smaller quantities.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a warm, citrusy flavor that can replace cumin.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami, enhancing the overall flavor of the marinade.
chicken thigh fillets - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is leaner and can be grilled similarly to thigh fillets.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper provides a similar sweetness and crunch.
red bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper offers a slightly more bitter flavor but maintains the crunch.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can replace onions.
romaine lettuce leaves - Substitute with mixed greens: Mixed greens offer a variety of textures and flavors, making them a good alternative.
avocados - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole provides a similar creamy texture and flavor.
cilantro leaves - Substitute with basil leaves: Basil offers a fresh, aromatic flavor that can replace cilantro leaves.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

Use a large, white plate: The simplicity of a large, white plate will allow the vibrant colors of the grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad to stand out, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Arrange the romaine lettuce leaves as a base: Lay the romaine lettuce leaves in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each other, to form a lush, green bed for the other ingredients.
Fan out the avocado slices: Thinly slice the avocados and fan them out in a semi-circle on one side of the plate, showcasing their creamy texture and vibrant color.
Place the chicken strips centrally: Slice the grilled chicken fillets into strips and arrange them in the center of the plate, slightly overlapping to create height and visual interest.
Scatter the pepper and onion strips: Evenly distribute the yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion strips around the chicken, adding pops of color and texture.
Drizzle with reserved marinade/dressing: Lightly drizzle the reserved marinade/dressing over the entire salad, ensuring each component is lightly coated for flavor and shine.
Garnish with extra cilantro leaves: Sprinkle a few extra cilantro leaves over the top for a fresh, herbal note and a touch of elegance.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream: Add a small dollop of sour cream on the side of the plate, allowing diners to add it to their salad as desired.
Finish with a lime wedge: Place a lime wedge on the edge of the plate for an additional burst of citrus that diners can squeeze over their salad for extra zest.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

Whisk: Used to combine the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Shallow dish: For marinating the chicken fillets.
Refrigerator: To keep the reserved marinade fresh and to marinate the chicken.
Grill pan: Ideal for grilling the chicken fillets to get that golden, crispy texture.
Skillet: An alternative to the grill pan for cooking the chicken.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken fillets and handling the cooked vegetables.
Paper towel: Used to wipe the pan clean before cooking the vegetables.
Knife: Essential for slicing the chicken, bell peppers, onion, and avocados.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of marinade ingredients.
Measuring cup: For measuring the lime juice accurately.
Serving bowl: To assemble and serve the salad.
Spoon: Useful for drizzling the remaining marinade/dressing over the salad.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

To store the grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad ingredients to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy.
If you want to freeze the grilled chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding it to the salad.
The grilled bell peppers and onions can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag after cooling completely. Thaw them in the refrigerator before adding them to the salad.
It's not recommended to freeze the avocado slices, as they tend to become mushy and discolored when thawed. It's best to add fresh avocado to the salad just before serving.
The romaine lettuce and cilantro leaves should be stored separately in the refrigerator, wrapped in slightly damp paper towels to maintain their freshness. Use them within 3-4 days for the best quality.
The reserved marinade/dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good shake or whisk before using it to dress the salad.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then slice and add to the salad. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
If the salad greens have become wilted, refresh them by soaking in cold water for a few minutes, then drain and pat dry before assembling the salad.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the chicken, peppers, and onions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Then, assemble the salad with fresh greens and avocado.
To maintain the texture of the avocado, add freshly sliced avocado to the reheated salad rather than reheating the avocado with the other ingredients.
If you have leftover dressing, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, shake the dressing well and drizzle over the reheated salad.
For a crispy texture, place the chicken, peppers, and onions on a baking sheet and reheat under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Then, assemble the salad with fresh ingredients.
If you prefer a cold salad, simply slice the chilled chicken and assemble the salad with the leftover ingredients. The flavors will have had time to meld together, creating a delicious and refreshing meal.

Interesting Trivia About Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

A fun fact about this grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad recipe is that the marinade not only infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors but also acts as a dressing for the salad, making it a versatile and efficient use of ingredients.

Is Making Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thigh fillets, bell peppers, onion, and romaine lettuce are generally affordable and widely available. The use of avocados and cilantro adds a fresh touch without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD.

Is This Grilled Chicken Fajita Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad recipe is a healthy and flavorful dish that packs a nutritional punch. Here's why:

The marinade/dressing is made with heart-healthy olive oil, lime juice (rich in vitamin C), and various spices that provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Chicken thigh fillets are a good source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
The salad incorporates a variety of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and romaine lettuce, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
Avocados are an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

While this recipe is already quite healthy, there are a few ways to make it even more nutritious:

Swap the chicken thigh fillets for skinless chicken breast to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Increase the variety of vegetables in the salad by adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots for added fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Instead of using sour cream as a topping, opt for a dollop of plain Greek yogurt, which is lower in calories and fat while providing a good source of protein and probiotics.
To make the marinade/dressing even healthier, reduce the amount of olive oil and replace it with more lime juice or a low-fat alternative like chicken broth.

Editor's Opinion on the Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe

This grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that balances smoky, tangy, and spicy notes beautifully. The marinade doubles as a dressing, ensuring cohesive flavors throughout. Grilling the chicken and vegetables adds a delightful char and depth. The creamy avocado and crisp romaine provide a refreshing contrast, while the optional sour cream and extra cilantro enhance the overall taste. It's a well-rounded, nutritious meal that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Enhance Your Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn: Mexican Street Corn: Imagine the smoky, charred kernels of corn slathered in a creamy, tangy sauce with a sprinkle of cotija cheese. This side dish brings a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the zesty chili lime chicken.

Black Bean and Mango Salsa: Black Bean and Mango Salsa: A vibrant mix of black beans, juicy mango, and crisp bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing. This salsa adds a refreshing and slightly sweet contrast to the savory fajita salad.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with the bright flavors of cilantro and lime. This side dish provides a comforting, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken and fresh vegetables in the salad.

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Tender sweet potatoes roasted to perfection with a kick of chili powder and a hint of cumin. These add a warm, earthy sweetness that balances the tangy and spicy notes of the chili lime chicken.

Tropical Fruit Salad: Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of pineapple, mango, and papaya tossed with a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of mint. This refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint to the savory elements of the fajita salad.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Dive into these zesty shrimp tacos! Marinated in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and cumin, these shrimp are grilled to perfection. Serve them on warm corn tortillas with a fresh cabbage slaw and a drizzle of creamy avocado sauce.

Southwest Chicken Salad: This vibrant salad features grilled chicken breast marinated in a smoky chipotle and lime dressing. Tossed with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and romaine lettuce, it's a hearty and refreshing meal. Top with crispy tortilla strips and a dollop of sour cream.

Mango Avocado Salsa Chicken: Sweet and savory, this dish pairs grilled chicken breasts with a vibrant mango avocado salsa. The salsa, made with ripe mangoes, creamy avocado, red onion, and a hint of jalapeño, adds a burst of flavor to the tender chicken. Serve with a side of cilantro lime rice.

Tex-Mex Quinoa Bowl: Packed with protein and flavor, this quinoa bowl features seasoned ground turkey, black beans, corn, and bell peppers. Topped with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of lime crema, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: These chicken skewers are marinated in a tangy pineapple juice and soy sauce mixture, then grilled to caramelized perfection. Paired with chunks of juicy pineapple and colorful bell peppers, they're a delightful combination of sweet and savory. Serve with a side of coconut rice.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers are a delightful way to start your meal. Imagine vibrant mini bell peppers filled with a creamy cheese mixture, accented with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. These bite-sized treats are not only visually appealing but also pack a punch of flavor. The crunchy texture of the peppers combined with the smooth filling creates a perfect balance. Serve them chilled for a refreshing start to your dining experience.

Shrimp Ceviche: Shrimp Ceviche is a refreshing and zesty appetizer that will tantalize your taste buds. Fresh shrimp is marinated in citrus juices, allowing the acidity to 'cook' the seafood. Mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño, this dish offers a burst of flavors with each bite. The citrus marinade not only enhances the shrimp's natural sweetness but also adds a tangy twist. Serve it with tortilla chips or lettuce cups for a delightful start to your meal.

Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Pie: Lemon Meringue Pie is a delightful way to end your meal. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd that balances sweetness and tartness perfectly. Topped with a cloud of toasted meringue, this dessert offers a beautiful contrast of textures. The lemon zest in the curd adds a refreshing zing, while the meringue provides a light, airy finish. Serve chilled for a refreshing treat that complements the bold flavors of your main course.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Chocolate Lava Cake is a decadent choice that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Picture a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, cakey exterior. When you cut into it, the warm, gooey chocolate flows out, creating a luxurious experience. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. The contrast of hot and cold, along with the intense chocolate flavor, makes this dessert an unforgettable finale to your meal.

Why trust this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad Recipe:

This grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad recipe is a must-try for its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. The marinade infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of citrus and spice, while the fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch. The use of avocado and romaine lettuce ensures a nutritious meal. Plus, the step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for beginners. Trust this recipe for a delicious and wholesome dining experience.

Join the discussion on this delicious Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. We'd love to hear your thoughts, variations, and experiences with this flavorful and healthy dish!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, you should marinate the chicken fillets for about 2 hours. If you're short on time, even 30 minutes can work, but the longer, the better for flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thigh fillets?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts instead of thigh fillets. Just keep in mind that breasts might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

What can I use as a substitute for cilantro?

If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley or even fresh basil as a substitute. It will change the flavor profile a bit but still be delicious.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but I recommend assembling the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. Store the grilled chicken, veggies, and dressing separately in the fridge.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of red chili flakes in the marinade or add some sliced jalapeños to the salad for an extra kick.