Cilantro Chicken Salad
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Cilantro Chicken Salad is a delightful departure from the traditional mayonnaise-laden versions. Zesty lime, fragrant cilantro, and savory shallots elevate simple shredded chicken into a vibrant and satisfying meal. Perfect in a crisp lettuce wrap, atop a bed of greens, or as a light and flavorful sandwich filling.
Nutrition
-
Carbohydrate
9 g
-
Cholesterol
71 mg
-
Fiber
1 g
-
Protein
29 g
-
Saturated Fat
1 g
-
Sodium
1341 mg
-
Sugar
2 g
-
Fat
9 g
-
Unsaturated Fat
0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
2 mins
In a medium skillet, combine lime zest, soy sauce, and chicken broth. (2 minutes)
02
Step
23 mins
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). (20-25 minutes)
03
Step
10 mins
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks or your fingers. Set aside in a large bowl. (10 minutes)
04
Step
3 mins
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, anchovy paste, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined. (3 minutes)
05
Step
2 mins
Add the minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and chopped shallots to the dressing. Stir to incorporate. (2 minutes)
06
Step
2 mins
Pour the dressing over the shredded chicken and mix gently until the chicken is evenly coated. (2 minutes)
For an even brighter flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Adjust the amount of cilantro and shallots to your preference. Some people prefer a more pronounced cilantro flavor.
If you don't have anchovy paste on hand, you can substitute a small squeeze of fish sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of umami.
To make this salad even healthier, substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or agave, or omit it altogether.
Serve this salad immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
RECIPE REVIEWS
Avarage Rating:
4.3/ 5 ( 33 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (8)
Kavon Krajcik
Jan 5, 2025I added some chopped celery for extra crunch. It was a big hit!
Sarai Bradtke
Dec 26, 2024I made this for a potluck and it was gone in minutes!
Letha Carroll
Sep 24, 2024The anchovy paste adds such a unique depth of flavor. Don't skip it!
Vicky Yundt
Sep 22, 2024I will try this recipe next week.
Aditya Mante
Sep 21, 2024I used coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and it was still amazing!
Finn Streichnader
Aug 19, 2024This recipe is very good. I will definitely make it again.
Raphael Kreiger
Aug 3, 2024This recipe is a lifesaver! So easy and delicious. I love that it's mayo-free!
Alvera Kunde
Jul 4, 2024My family loved this! Even my picky eaters ate it right up.