Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together in a harmonious blend. Picture a colorful tapestry of flavors and textures, each element contributing to a symphony of taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Olive oil
– Lime juice
– Chili powder
– Ground cumin
– Fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mixed greens (such as romaine and spinach)
– Sweet corn kernels
– Black beans, rinsed and drained
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
– Red onion, thinly sliced
– Avocado, diced
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work beautifully)
– Tortilla strips for a delightful crunch
Each ingredient plays a crucial role, much like the harmonious gatherings we had at Mama Lou’s table. The fresh produce and spices work together to create a salad that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Instructions
Crafting this salad is a joyful process, one that invites you to savor each step as you weave together flavors and memories. Here’s how to bring it to life:
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** Start by marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll be reminded of the warmth of Mama Lou’s cooking.
3. **Prepare the Salad Base:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Toss them gently to mix.
4. **Slice and Add Chicken:** Once the chicken has rested, slice it thinly and add it to the salad base, along with the diced avocado and shredded cheese.
5. **Finish with Crunch:** Top with tortilla strips for that delightful crunch, creating a texture that’s as rich and varied as the stories shared around a family table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International