Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad: A Flavor-Packed, Easy Summer Meal

If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant, and protein-packed salad that’s bursting with bold Tex-Mex flavors, look no further than this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad! Perfect for summer lunches, quick dinners, or meal prep, this salad combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips, all tossed in a zesty homemade ranch-taco dressing.

In this word guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Why this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is a must-try
✅ Step-by-step instructions for making the perfect salad
✅ Ingredient breakdown & substitutions for dietary needs
✅ Expert tips for meal prep and storage
✅ Nutritional benefits & Weight Watchers points
✅ Serving suggestions & variations to keep it exciting

Let’s dive in!

---

Why You’ll Love This Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

This Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is not just another salad—it’s a flavor explosion in every bite! Here’s why it’s a crowd-pleaser:

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes (including prep time!)
✔ Meal-Prep Friendly – Stays fresh for lunches all week
✔ High-Protein & Nutrient-Dense – Packed with 34g of protein per serving
✔ Customizable – Swap ingredients based on preferences
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for BBQs, potlucks, or family dinners

With a 4.4-star rating from 122 reviews, this salad is a proven favorite!

---

Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing:

The dressing is a creamy, tangy blend of ranch and taco seasoning—irresistible!

• 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 Tbsp taco seasoning (hot or mild, adjust to taste)

For the Salad:

A colorful mix of fresh veggies, protein, and crunch:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)

• 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped (about 1 head)

• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced

• 1 cucumber, seeded & diced

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 4-5 green onions, sliced

• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed

• 4 oz sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese, cubed

• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped

• Juice of ½ lime (for brightness!)

• 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed (for crunch!)

Optional Garnishes:

• Diced jalapeños (for heat)

• Toasted pumpkin seeds (extra crunch)

• Diced avocado (creamy richness)

• Jicama (refreshing sweetness)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and taco seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Pro Tip: Let the dressing sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

2. Prep the Salad Ingredients

• Chop lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions.

• Dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

• Drain & rinse black beans thoroughly.

• Cube the cheese for easy bites.

3. Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
✅ Chopped lettuce
✅ Diced chicken
✅ Tomatoes, cucumber, corn
✅ Black beans, green onions
✅ Cheese, cilantro
✅ Lime juice

Toss gently to mix.

4. Add Dressing & Crunch

• Drizzle dressing a little at a time (you may not need all of it).

• Toss lightly to coat evenly.

• Top with crushed tortilla chips just before serving (to keep them crispy!).

5. Garnish & Serve

• Add optional toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or pumpkin seeds.

• Season with salt & pepper to taste.

Serve immediately for the best texture!

---

The Ultimate Guide to Making Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious salad that’s perfect for summer, meal prep, or a light dinner, this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is the answer! Packed with fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 25 minutes.

Why This Salad Stands Out

Unlike basic greens, this Tex-Mex version is loaded with texture and bold flavors:

• Crunchy tortilla chips add the perfect contrast to crisp lettuce.

• Creamy avocado and cheese balance the tangy lime dressing.

• Spicy jalapeños or taco seasoning give it a kick.

Plus, it’s high in protein (34g per serving!) and fiber, making it a satisfying meal rather than a side dish.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Prep the Dressing – Simply mix ranch dressing with taco seasoning (hot or mild). Let it sit to enhance the flavors.

2. Chop the Veggies – Romaine, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions add freshness.

3. Add Protein & Beans – Diced chicken and black beans make it hearty.

4. Toss & Garnish – Combine everything, then top with crushed tortilla chips, cilantro, and lime juice.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut.

• Don’t overdress—add the dressing gradually to avoid sogginess.

• Serve immediately to keep the tortilla chips crispy.

This salad is versatile, easy, and delicious—perfect for potlucks, lunches, or a quick weeknight dinner!

---

 Customizing Your Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

One of the best things about this Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is how customizable it is! Whether you’re vegetarian, keto, or just craving extra spice, here’s how to tweak it to fit your taste.

Protein Swaps

• Grilled shrimp or steak – Great for seafood or red meat lovers.

• Tofu or chickpeas – Perfect vegetarian/vegan alternatives.

• Pulled pork or carnitas – For a richer, smoky flavor.

Low-Carb & Keto Adjustments

• Skip the corn and black beans to reduce carbs.

• Add extra avocado for healthy fats.

• Use pork rinds instead of tortilla chips for crunch.

Spice It Up (Or Down)

• Mild version – Use mild taco seasoning and omit jalapeños.

• Extra heat – Add diced serranos, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce.

Extra Toppings for More Flavor

• Pickled red onions – Adds tangy crunch.

• Cotija cheese – A salty, crumbly alternative to cheddar.

• Mango or pineapple – For a sweet-spicy twist.

No matter how you tweak it, this salad stays fresh, filling, and full of flavor!

---

 Meal Prep & Storage Tips for Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

Want to enjoy this salad all week? Follow these meal prep and storage tips to keep it fresh and delicious!

Best Way to Meal Prep

• Store dressing separately to prevent sogginess.

• Pre-chop veggies & chicken – Keep them in airtight containers.

• Wait to add chips & avocado until serving for maximum crunch.

How Long Does It Last?

• Dressed salad – Best eaten within 24 hours (lettuce wilts fast!).

• Undressed salad – Stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.

• Dressing – Lasts up to 1 week when refrigerated.

Freezing? Not Recommended

• Fresh veggies & lettuce don’t freeze well (they become mushy).

• Cooked chicken & beans can be frozen, but reassemble fresh.

Perfect for Lunchboxes!

• Layer ingredients in jars (dressing at the bottom, greens on top).

• Pack chips separately in a small bag.

With these tips, you can enjoy this salad anytime—no last-minute prep needed!

Expert Tips for the Best Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad

🔹 Meal Prep Hack: Store dressing separately to keep salad fresh for 3-4 days.
🔹 Extra Protein: Add grilled shrimp or steak instead of chicken.
🔹 Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for roasted sweet potatoes or tofu.
🔹 Low-Carb Version: Skip tortilla chips & add extra avocado.
🔹 Spice It Up: Use hot taco seasoning or add chipotle peppers.

---

Nutritional Benefits & Weight Watchers Points

This salad is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a balanced meal!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Weight Watchers Points:

✅ 5 PersonalPoints per serving

---

Serving Suggestions & Variations

What to Serve With Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad:

• Warm tortillas or quesadillas

• Mexican street corn (elote)

• Cilantro-lime rice

Fun Variations to Try:

🌮 Taco Salad Bowl: Serve in a crispy tortilla bowl.
🥑 Avocado-Lime Dressing: Swap ranch for creamy avocado dressing.
🌶 Spicy Mango Twist: Add diced mango & habanero.

---

Print

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Summer Salad!

This Tex-Mex Chopped Chicken Salad is easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable—making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. With bold Tex-Mex flavors, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s a healthy yet indulgent dish everyone will love.