Name: Sriracha Lime Chicken Salad
Prep time: PT-487025H19M31S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-487025H19M31S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For the Chicken:; 2 chicken breasts (or thighs); 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; For the Dressing:; 2 tbsp sriracha; 1 tbsp lime juice (fresh); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness); 1 tsp soy sauce or coconut aminos (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; For the Salad:; 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, etc.); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sriracha Lime Chicken Salad is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of spicy sriracha, tangy lime, and savory grilled chicken. The salad is fresh, filling, and full of nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a low-carb or high-protein meal. The crunchy vegetables, combined with the creamy avocado and the fiery sriracha-lime dressing, create a perfect balance of heat, freshness, and creaminess. It’s an incredibly versatile dish, so you can adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

For the Dressing:

2 tbsp sriracha
1 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
1 tsp soy sauce or coconut aminos (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine, etc.)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, sliced
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds (optional)

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

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked. Remove from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha, lime juice, olive oil, honey or maple syrup (if using), soy sauce (if using), and salt and pepper. Adjust the sweetness or heat level by adding more honey or sriracha, depending on your preference.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion. Toss gently to combine.
Add the Chicken: Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle the sriracha-lime dressing over the salad and toss everything together to evenly coat.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2-3 servings. The preparation time is about 10-15 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for cooking the chicken.

Variations

Spicy Tofu or Shrimp: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for a different protein option.
More Vegetables: Add bell peppers, carrots, or corn for extra color and crunch.
Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the honey or maple syrup in the dressing to keep it low-carb and keto-friendly.
Add Cheese: Top with crumbled feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar for a more indulgent version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the avocado separate to prevent browning.
Reheating: The chicken can be reheated in the microwave or a skillet, but it’s best to keep the salad fresh by adding the dressing and avocado just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Just shred or slice the chicken and add it to the salad.

2. How can I make this salad spicier?

To make the salad spicier, add more sriracha to the dressing or sprinkle some chili flakes on top for extra heat.

3. Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this salad vegetarian by swapping the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based protein like chickpeas or black beans.

4. Can I add a carb source to this salad?

Yes, you can add a carb source like quinoa, rice, or tortilla chips for a more filling meal.

5. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the sriracha-lime dressing can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

6. How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, store the dressing separately and only add it just before serving. Also, keep any watery ingredients like cucumber or tomatoes in a separate container if prepping the salad ahead of time.

7. Can I make this salad spicy without sriracha?

Yes, if you don’t have sriracha, you can substitute with another hot sauce or add diced fresh jalapeños to the salad for a fresh heat.

8. Can I use a different type of greens?

Yes! You can use any type of greens you prefer, like arugula, spinach, kale, or mixed greens.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While the chicken can be frozen, the salad itself should not be frozen, as the veggies and avocado will lose their texture once thawed.

10. Can I serve this as a meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the salad ingredients in advance, but it’s best to keep the dressing, avocado, and cilantro separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Sriracha Lime Chicken Salad is a delicious, spicy, and refreshing meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any time of day. The zesty sriracha-lime dressing adds a tangy kick, while the grilled chicken provides a lean protein boost. Fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and optional toppings like cheese or nuts make this salad satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it for a quick dinner, this vibrant salad is sure to be a hit! Enjoy the perfect balance of heat, freshness, and creaminess with every bite!