Elevate your salad game with a burst of Caribbean flavor in this Grilled Jerk Chicken Salad. Marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, the jerk chicken brings a smoky heat that’s perfectly balanced by the fresh and colorful salad ingredients. Topped with a zesty lime-cilantro dressing, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine, etc.)
- 1 mango, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Lime-Cilantro Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, allspice, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.
3. Prepare the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced mango, diced avocado, red bell pepper slices, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Assemble the Salad:
Add the grilled jerk chicken slices on top of the salad. Drizzle the lime-cilantro dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve:
Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro if desired. This salad is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the vibrant flavors and textures.
This Grilled Jerk Chicken Salad is a delightful fusion of bold Caribbean spices and fresh, nutritious ingredients. The juicy, spiced chicken pairs perfectly with the sweetness of mango, the creaminess of avocado, and the crispness of fresh greens. Topped with a tangy lime-cilantro dressing, this salad is a true celebration of flavors and colors. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal, this dish will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with every bite. Enjoy this Caribbean-inspired culinary adventure and savor the freshness of the islands!
