Print

Cajun Chicken Salad Recipe

Cajun Chicken Salad Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 22 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Cajun Chicken Salad featuring spicy seared chicken breasts atop a fresh mix of greens, bell peppers, and avocado, all tossed in a creamy, zesty Cajun dressing. This salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner with options to customize toppings like croutons, cheddar cheese, bacon, and hot sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Salad

  • 6 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, spinach, or spring mix)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

For the Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk or water (to thin, if needed)

Optional Toppings

  • Croutons
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Generously rub 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning on both sides of each chicken breast, ensuring an even coating.
  2. Heat the skillet: Place 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until shimmering.
  3. Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown crust forms. Then reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
  4. Rest the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes to retain juices.
  5. Slice the chicken: Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces according to preference.
  6. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  7. Season the dressing: Add salt and pepper to taste, whisking well to combine.
  8. Adjust consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add milk or water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  9. Chill the dressing: For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes. It can also be used immediately if needed.
  10. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, corn kernels, and chopped cilantro.
  11. Add the chicken: Incorporate the sliced or diced Cajun chicken into the salad bowl.
  12. Toss with dressing: Pour about half the creamy Cajun dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat evenly. Add more dressing as desired, careful not to overdress.
  13. Combine salad: Gently toss again to fully incorporate dressing and ingredients.
  14. Serve immediately: Plate the salad while fresh.
  15. Add toppings (optional): Garnish with croutons, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, or a drizzle of hot sauce to taste.

Notes

  • For a lighter dressing, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
  • Use fresh lime juice for best flavor in the dressing.
  • If using frozen corn, thaw and drain before adding to the salad.
  • Make sure to rest the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning levels in the dressing and chicken to suit your spice preference.
  • Salad is best served immediately to avoid sogginess, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; keep dressing separate if possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken salad, spicy chicken salad, creamy Cajun dressing, healthy chicken salad, quick chicken salad recipe

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/cajun-chicken-salad-recipe/