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Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This grilled chili lime chicken fajita salad is packed with bold flavors, fresh veggies, and juicy grilled chicken marinated in a zesty chili lime sauce. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve it with a creamy cilantro-lime dressing for the ultimate flavor combo!


Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Juice of 2 limes

  • 2 teaspoons chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling veggies)

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cup corn (fresh, grilled, or canned)

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Toppings:

  • Lime wedges

  • Tortilla strips or chips

  • Crumbled queso fresco or feta

For the Dressing (optional but recommended):

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices. Add chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge).

  2. Grill the Chicken:
    Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.

  3. Grill the Veggies:
    While the chicken rests, toss the sliced peppers and onions with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Grill for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and tender.

  4. Assemble the Salad:
    In a large bowl or platter, layer chopped romaine, grilled peppers and onions, cherry tomatoes, corn, avocado, and sliced grilled chicken. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.

  5. Make the Dressing (if using):
    Stir together Greek yogurt, mayo, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  6. Serve:
    Drizzle salad with dressing and top with optional toppings like lime wedges, tortilla strips, or cheese. Serve immediately.


Notes

  • To save time, you can prep the marinade and veggies ahead.

  • Chicken can be cooked in a stovetop grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.

 

  • Adjust spice level by adding cayenne or using mild chili powder


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg