Meksikanu Chicken Salad

This Meksikanu Chicken Salad is a refreshing and zesty dish that combines tender chicken breast with crisp romaine lettuce and juicy tomatoes. The salad features a delightful mix of textures, from the crunchy tortilla strips to the creamy dressing with a hint of spice. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite for lunch or dinner. The dish is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a warm day or any time you crave a burst of freshness. The combination of Mexican-inspired ingredients gives this salad a unique twist that will excite your taste buds. It's not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays. The dressing, made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, ties all the ingredients together beautifully. This salad is both nutritious and flavorful, providing a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a dash of Tobasco sauce will elevate the salad even further.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 chicken breast fillets (approx. 125 g each) or about 500 g cooked or braised chicken
• 1 small head romaine lettuce
• 2 large mealy tomatoes
• 2 corn tortillas

Sauces and Spices

• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 l chicken broth
• 1 small bunch cilantro
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tsp oregano
• Tobasco sauce
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breast fillets with salt and pepper. In a pan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat and lightly sear the chicken on all sides.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, cover the pan with a lid, and let the chicken simmer on low heat for 15 minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool.
3. Cut the cooled chicken into thin strips and set aside for later use.
4. Prepare the tomatoes by cutting them in half. If using large tomatoes, cut them crosswise, remove the seeds, and dice the flesh into small pieces.
5. Separate the romaine lettuce leaves, leaving the smaller ones whole, and cut the larger leaves into wide strips.
6. In a separate pan, heat the corn tortillas slightly until they are pliable, then cut them into strips for garnish.
7. Wash the cilantro, pluck the leaves, and finely chop them.
8. In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, 3 tbsp of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and Tobasco sauce to taste.
9. Whisk the ingredients until you achieve a well-blended, spicy dressing that has a bit of a kick from the Tobasco sauce.
10. Mix in the chopped cilantro to the dressing to add a burst of herbal freshness.
11. Divide the lettuce and tomato pieces evenly onto four serving plates or bowls.
12. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the lettuce and tomatoes for a structured presentation.
13. Generously drizzle the spicy dressing all over the salad, ensuring each component is well-coated.
14. Top the salad with the tortilla strips for an added crunch.
15. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The dressing should have a balanced, tangy, and spicy flavor.
16. Serve the salad immediately while the tortilla strips are still crispy.
17. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Meksikanu Chicken Salad as a healthy meal or satisfying starter.
18. For extra flavor, consider adding avocado slices or a sprinkle of Cotija cheese.
19. Pair it with a chilled beverage like a light lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing combo.
20. Buen provecho!

Tips

• Substitute: Use turkey or tofu if you prefer a meatless version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Tobasco sauce to control the heat.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance to save time.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Replace chicken with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Add black beans and corn for additional protein and fiber.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamy dressing alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
• Garnish with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of cheese.
• Serve with freshly made guacamole and tortilla chips.

Best Places

• Cafe Tacuba - A historic eatery offering a variety of authentic Mexican dishes. Location: Calle de Tacuba 28, Centro Histórico, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Taco Loco - Known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, serving fresh tacos and salads. Location: 123 Fiesta Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
• El Zocalo - A local favorite featuring classic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Location: 456 Fiesta Blvd, Madrid, Spain.
• La Cucaracha - A charming restaurant with a beautiful terrace serving traditional dishes. Location: 789 Salsa Street, Barcelona, Spain.
• Cantina El Mexicano - Casual dining with a menu full of flavorful Mexican dishes. Location: 101 Nacho Lane, Sydney, Australia.
• Casa de la Salsa - Offers a cozy environment with live music and authentic Mexican food. Location: 234 Jalapeno St, London, UK.
• Los Amigos - Features an extensive menu with fusion dishes and hearty portions. Location: 567 Burrito Road, Berlin, Germany.
• Burrito Brothers - A popular spot for quick bites and delicious meals. Location: 891 Guacamole Blvd, Toronto, Canada.
• El Camino - Sophisticated restaurant offering a wide range of Mexican delicacies. Location: 321 Tapatio Lane, Paris, France.
• Agave Grill - Known for its vibrant flavors and exceptional service. Location: 654 Taquito Ave, Miami, USA.