Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a delightful summer dish that combines smoky grilled flavors with fresh ingredients. This easy 15-minute recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or even as a light lunch. The unique combination of grilled romaine and tender chicken topped with zesty salsa dressing makes it a standout in any meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days when you still want a delicious meal.
• Flavorful: The combination of grilled chicken, corn, and salsa dressing brings vibrant flavors to your plate.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s great on its own or as a side dish at gatherings.
• Grill-Friendly: Utilize your grill to infuse smoky flavors into the salad, making it ideal for summer cookouts.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Large platter
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Gives the chicken and romaine their signature charred flavor while cooking quickly.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the salsa dressing ingredients without mess.
• Knife: Necessary for slicing chicken, corn, avocado, and other salad components precisely.

Ingredients

For the Salsa Dressing

• 1/2 cup jarred mild salsa
• 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 lime

For the Salad

• 4 boneless (skinless) chicken thighs (4 oz each), trimmed of fat
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 2 corn on the cobs (husks removed)
• 2 romaine hearts

For Garnish

• 4 oz avocado (1 small hass sliced)
• 2 tablespoons diced red onion
• 1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes
• pinch of kosher salt

How to Make Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Salsa Dressing

Combine the salsa, olive oil, and lime juice in a mixing bowl. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle kosher salt, dried oregano, and cumin over the chicken thighs. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Light the grill to medium heat. While it’s heating up, prepare the romaine by removing any tired outer leaves. Halve each head vertically and place on a large platter. Spray cut sides with olive oil spray.

Step 4: Grill Chicken and Corn

Lightly spray corn with olive oil. Place both chicken thighs and corn on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until chicken is cooked through and corn is tender. Remove from grill and transfer to a cutting board.

Step 5: Grill Romaine Hearts

Place romaine hearts cut side down over high heat close to the heat source for about 1 to 2 minutes until lightly charred. Remove from grill.

Step 6: Assemble Your Salad

Slice grilled chicken into strips and cut kernels off the corn cob. Serve over grilled romaine hearts along with sliced avocado, diced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, a pinch of kosher salt, and drizzle generously with salsa dressing on top. Enjoy your refreshing Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Serving a Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is simple and can be tailored to your taste preferences. This vibrant salad works well as a light main dish or a flavorful side. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it as the primary meal option, perfect for lunch or dinner. The grilled chicken provides protein, while the veggies add freshness.

With Additional Proteins

• Add grilled shrimp or fish for an extra seafood twist. This brings a different flavor profile while keeping the dish light.

Paired with Tortilla Chips

• For some crunch, serve tortilla chips on the side. They complement the salsa dressing beautifully and add texture to the meal.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Place the salad on a bed of cooked quinoa for added fiber and nutrients. This makes it more filling and boosts its health benefits.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh cilantro or parsley to elevate flavors. The herbs bring brightness and enhance the overall presentation.

How to Perfect Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

To make your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing even better, consider these tips that will help you achieve the best results.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh romaine hearts and ripe avocados to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure to preheat your grill properly for even cooking of chicken and corn.
• Watch Cooking Times: Keep an eye on both chicken and corn; overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to make your own salsa with fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers for a personalized touch.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding different spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to the chicken for added depth of flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this salad fresh off the grill for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad adds variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this delightful salad well.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn topped with cotija cheese, lime juice, and spices makes a great accompaniment.
2. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with cilantro and lime adds a refreshing touch that pairs well with the salad.
3. Black Bean Soup: A warm bowl of black bean soup offers hearty flavors that balance the freshness of the salad.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances flavors while providing a rich texture that complements grilled ingredients.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and crunch, making it an ideal topping or side dish.
6. Chips & Guac Platter: Offer tortilla chips alongside guacamole for extra crunch during mealtime enjoyment.
7. Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides an excellent contrast in textures while enhancing the summer vibe of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these pitfalls can enhance your dish significantly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use kosher salt and spices as instructed for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked to keep it juicy.
• Not prepping the vegetables: Ignoring prep steps like trimming romaine and removing corn husks can affect cooking time and texture. Always prepare your ingredients before grilling.
• Grilling romaine too long: Leaving romaine on the grill for too long can make it limp. Grill only for 1-2 minutes on high heat to maintain a nice crunch.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving grilled salad out can lead to spoilage. Store any leftovers in airtight containers promptly after serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3 days for best flavor and freshness.
• Keep separate from dressing if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to texture changes in grilled romaine.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing chicken separately.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if needed.

Reheating Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salad on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portion to a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different proteins in Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing?

You can easily substitute chicken thighs with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile while keeping the recipe delicious.

How do I choose ripe avocados for this salad?

Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but don’t feel mushy. A ripe avocado will have a darker skin tone as well.

What variations can I try for the salsa dressing?

Feel free to experiment with different salsa varieties—spicy or fruit-based salsas like mango can add unique flavors to your salad.

Is Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad good for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is great for meal prep as long as you store components separately until serving time. This keeps everything fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a vibrant dish perfect for summer dining. Its combination of grilled flavors and fresh ingredients makes it both satisfying and versatile. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!