Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Salad

A tangy and hearty salad of fresh veggies, grilled cilantro lime chicken, and a homemade creamy cilantro dressing.

I love making big salads that pack in flavor, nutrients, and protein.  The star of this salad is the juicy Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken. The recipe shows chicken thighs, which has a ton of flavor. You can also use the marinade on chicken breast, tenders, or even shrimp.

My favorite is when the chicken is still hot off the grill and it wilts the lettuce, so you get a warm and cold effect. Also, if you've never tried grilled Romaine, I highly recommend it. Check out my Grilled Romaine Recipe.

You can also wait for the chicken to cool down if you prefer your salad cold.

Dressing and Toppings

While the chicken is grilling, prep the salad ingredients and dressing.

Recipe for Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing.

Making homemade dressing isn't complicated, and the best part is that you control the sodium and adjust to your preference.

For the toppings, feel free to use canned black beans and corn. Just be sure rinse and drain them.

Slice some cherry tomatoes, an avocado, and romaine lettuce. You can also do some pickled onions, cilantro, and jalapeno slices.

How to Serve and Store

Assemble the salad with the lettuce on the bottom, toppings and sliced cilantro lime chicken.

To meal prep the salad or for leftovers, store the toppings in individual container and the dressing separately. I also don't add the avocado until the day I'm eating it. Or buy these handy avocado singles.

Check out these other delicious salad recipes: Thai Beef Salad or Kale and Quinoa