1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
- If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, grill or poach it until fully cooked. Let it cool, then dice or shred it.
- If using frozen corn, cook according to package instructions or quickly sauté in a pan with a bit of oil for a few minutes. Let it cool.
- Dice the avocado and place it in a bowl to prevent browning (you can sprinkle a bit of lime juice on it).
- Dice the red bell pepper, chop the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the cilantro.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk or shake until well combined and emulsified.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked chicken, corn, diced avocado, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Serve:
- Divide the salad among individual plates or bowls.
- Garnish with extra cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Chicken Preparation: For extra flavor, season the chicken with your favorite spices or a marinade before cooking.
- Avocado: To keep the avocado fresh, add it to the salad just before serving to prevent browning.
- Corn: If you prefer a bit of char, you can grill the corn for a smoky flavor before adding it to the salad.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Conclusion
This Chicken Avocado & Corn Salad is a vibrant and delicious option that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients in a satisfying way. It’s perfect for those looking for a light, healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy this salad on its own or as a side dish with your favorite main course!
Explore more fresh and healthy recipes on our blog. Discover how to create meals that are both nutritious and delicious!