Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad from Costa Vida features tender grilled chicken tossed with fresh mixed greens, vibrant raspberries, smoky chipotle peppers, crunchy almonds, and tangy feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty raspberry vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Salad tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Serving platter or salad bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup raspberry preserves
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
When preparing Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad, ensure you use fresh raspberries for the brightest flavor and avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain tenderness. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce provide a smoky heat; adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level. Use extra-virgin olive oil for both grilling and the vinaigrette for a richer taste. Sliced almonds add a satisfying crunch, while feta cheese contributes a tangy contrast--both should be fresh and not pre-packaged to guarantee quality. Your homemade version of the Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad from Costa Vida will capture the same vibrant and balanced flavors found on their copycat menu.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil; season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side; remove and let rest.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips.
- In a small bowl, mash chipotle peppers in adobo until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together raspberry preserves, mashed chipotle, red wine vinegar, honey, extra-virgin olive oil, and Dijon mustard to make dressing.
- Taste dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Wash and spin dry mixed salad greens.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine salad greens, fresh raspberries, sliced almonds, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Add sliced grilled chicken to the salad.
- Drizzle salad with raspberry chipotle dressing.
- Toss salad gently with tongs to combine.
- Serve salad on a platter or in individual bowls.
Substitution
Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad from Costa Vida copycat menu combines grilled chicken, fresh mixed greens, and a smoky chipotle kick balanced by sweet raspberries and a tangy raspberry vinaigrette. If fresh raspberries are unavailable, frozen raspberries can be thawed and drained to maintain similar flavor and texture. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can be substituted with smoked paprika and a dash of cayenne for a milder smoky heat. To simplify preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own chicken breast without sacrificing taste. Your salad's crunch can be enhanced or varied by swapping sliced almonds with toasted pecans or walnuts.
Tips
Make sure to let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to retain its juiciness and avoid dry meat. When mashing the chipotle peppers, remove seeds if you prefer a milder heat level in your dressing. Washing and thoroughly drying the salad greens with a salad spinner prevents sogginess and keeps the salad crisp. Taste the raspberry chipotle dressing before adding it to your salad to ensure the balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors suits your preference.
Nutritions
Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad from Costa Vida provides a balanced nutritional profile with high-quality protein from the grilled chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The mixed greens, raspberries, and almonds contribute fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, supporting digestive health and heart wellness. Feta cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, while the raspberry vinaigrette offers a flavorful dose of vitamins C and E. Your meal is nutrient-rich and perfect for maintaining energy and overall wellness.
Storage
Store leftover Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep the dressing separate in a small jar to preserve the texture of the mixed greens and raspberries until you're ready to enjoy your meal. Always check that the chicken is fully cooled before refrigeration to ensure food safety.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken breast with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Swap fresh raspberries with blackberries or sliced strawberries to vary the berry flavor. For a milder dressing, reduce the chipotle peppers or replace them with smoked paprika. Almonds can be replaced with walnuts or pecans for a different crunch and flavor profile.
Allergies
Your Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad contains common allergens such as almonds and feta cheese, which may trigger nut and dairy allergies respectively. The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce could also cause reactions in individuals sensitive to spicy peppers or ingredients like vinegar and mustard within the dressing. Always check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any food sensitivities or allergies before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
The Raspberry Chipotle Chicken Salad from Costa Vida offers a unique blend of sweet and smoky flavors that appeal to those seeking a bold and refreshing meal. Featuring tender grilled chicken, fresh greens, tangy raspberries, and a zesty chipotle dressing, this salad provides a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Your homemade version allows you to control ingredient quality and customize heat levels to suit your palate. Replicating this popular dish at home gives you the chance to enjoy the vibrant fusion of flavors anytime.