Ensalada de Pollo: A Flavorful Chicken Salad Recipe

Published: February 26, 2026

by liza

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Whipping up this ensalada de pollo is so simple, even your kitchen-averse cousin could manage it without calling for backup
Bursting with zesty flavors, this dish will have your taste buds doing the cha-cha in delight
Just imagine a rainbow on your plate; the colors and textures practically scream, “Eat me!” Whether you’re serving it at a backyard fiesta or just as a cozy dinner for one, it’s as flexible as a yoga instructor

I remember the laughter around the table as my family devoured my ensalada de pollo, asking for seconds and thirds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious ensalada de pollo:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor; choose a high-quality brand for the best taste.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled versions to ensure maximum freshness.

Garlic Powder: This pantry staple enhances flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic; it’s great for quick prep.

Salt: Use kosher salt for even seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.

Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick; feel free to add more if you like heat.

Mixed Salad Greens: A blend of greens adds crunch and nutrition; choose organic if possible for better quality.

Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet tomatoes provide vibrant color and juiciness; opt for ripe ones for the best results.

Cucumber: Crisp cucumber slices add refreshing texture; peel them for a milder flavor or leave the skin on for extra nutrients.

Avocado: Ripe avocado contributes creaminess; choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed gently.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion offers a sharp contrast in flavor; soak in water briefly to mellow its bite if desired.

Cilantro or Parsley (optional): Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly; use according to your preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking your chicken breast. You can either grill, bake, or poach it. If you choose grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika for an extra flavor kick. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken reaches a juicy internal temperature of 165°F. As it cooks, you’ll notice a lovely aroma filling your kitchen that hints at the delicious meal to come.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies: While your chicken is cooling down, it’s time to chop up those vibrant vegetables. Gather colorful bell peppers, crunchy cucumbers, and ripe tomatoes. Dice everything into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. The colors should be bright and inviting—this is what gives your ensalada de pollo its fresh appeal. Don’t forget to add some red onion for a slight zing! When chopping, let the knife glide through the veggies; this will help release their natural juices and aromas.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it’s well-combined and slightly emulsified. A secret tip is to add a pinch of cumin for warmth; it elevates the dressing beautifully. The vibrant yellow-green color of your dressing will make you eager to drizzle it over your salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped veggies with shredded chicken once it’s cooled down. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together using salad tongs or two forks. Be careful not to mash the ingredients; you want each piece to retain its shape and crunch while soaking up that delicious dressing.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Finally, transfer your ensalada de pollo onto individual plates or keep it in the big bowl for serving family-style. Garnish with avocado slices or crumbled feta cheese if desired; this adds creaminess that beautifully complements the crisp veggies. As you sit down to enjoy this colorful dish, take a moment to appreciate all those vibrant flavors mingling together—it’s pure comfort on a plate!

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate the flavor of your ensalada de pollo
Don’t skip this step
Ensure your chicken is cooked just right; overcooking can make it dry and less enjoyable
A light marinade before grilling can add depth to the chicken’s flavor, enhancing your ensalada de pollo

Perfecting the Cooking Process

ensalada de pollo image 5 1 — Ensalada de Pollo: A Flavorful Chicken Salad Recipe 4

For a delicious ensalada de pollo, start by searing the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. While the chicken rests, prepare your salad greens and chop fresh vegetables. Assemble everything once the chicken has cooled slightly.

Add Your Touch

Get creative with your ensalada de pollo! Swap out traditional ingredients like lettuce for spinach or kale. Try adding fruits such as mango or strawberries for a sweet twist. Experiment with different dressings, like a zesty lime vinaigrette, or toss in nuts for extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

To store your ensalada de pollo, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm in a microwave at medium power for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to maintain freshness and flavor.

FAQ

What is ensalada de pollo?

Ensalada de pollo is a refreshing chicken salad featuring a mix of vegetables and dressing.

How can I customize my ensalada de pollo?

You can customize it by adding fruits, nuts, or different dressings to suit your taste.

Is ensalada de pollo healthy?

Yes, ensalada de pollo can be a healthy meal option, packed with protein and nutrients.