Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (grilled or fresh)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (for dressing)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for dressing)
- 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste or hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for dressing)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for dressing)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder or aji amarillo paste, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, corn, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, aji amarillo paste or hot sauce, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Arrange the salad base on serving plates or a large platter.
- Top with sliced grilled chicken.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad or serve it on the side. Toss gently if desired before serving.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for more intense flavor.
- Use a grill pan or oven if an outdoor grill is not available.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing aji amarillo or chili powder.
- Greek yogurt makes the dressing lighter while mayonnaise makes it richer.
- Keep components separate for storage to maintain freshness.
- Add quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg