Double Chicken Avocado Salad from El Pollo Loco features tender grilled chicken breast, ripe avocado slices, fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crisp red onions, all tossed in a zesty cilantro-lime dressing for a refreshing and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ripe avocado
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 small red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt
- Black pepper
Freshness is key when selecting ingredients for your Double Chicken Avocado Salad; choose boneless skinless chicken breasts that are firm and pale pink, and a ripe avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure but is not overly soft. Opt for mixed salad greens that are crisp and vibrant, and select cherry tomatoes that are bright red and plump to enhance the salad's flavor and texture. When prepping, finely slice the red onion to balance the creamy avocado and tender chicken, and use fresh cilantro and lime juice in the dressing for the zesty, refreshing taste characteristic of this dish. Use quality olive oil and a fresh garlic clove to ensure the dressing complements the other ingredients perfectly. Your homemade Double Chicken Avocado Salad from El Pollo Loco copycat menu will be a delicious, nutritious meal that mirrors the fresh, bold flavors of the original.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Let chicken rest, then slice into strips.
- Slice avocado, halve cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice red onion.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice (from lime), honey, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a salad bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
- Add grilled chicken strips and avocado slices to the salad.
- Drizzle with cilantro-lime dressing.
- Toss salad gently to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Double Chicken Avocado Salad from El Pollo Loco copycat menu can be customized if you don't have access to certain ingredients. You may substitute grilled chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey breast for convenience. If ripe avocados are unavailable, sliced cucumber or steamed zucchini offer a similar creamy texture with fewer calories. When fresh cilantro is not on hand, consider using fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried cilantro, adjusting the amount to taste. Your salad will still maintain a bright and refreshing flavor when you tweak the dressing by adding extra lime juice or a dash of vinegar to balance the sweetness of honey.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness before grilling to promote uniform cooking and avoid undercooked or dry spots. Letting the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes helps retain juices and enhances flavor. When slicing avocado, use a ripe but firm fruit to prevent mushiness in your salad. Prepare the cilantro-lime dressing fresh and taste it before serving to balance the acidity and sweetness perfectly for your palate.
Nutritions
Double Chicken Avocado Salad from El Pollo Loco offers a high-protein meal with approximately 40 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the grilled chicken breasts. The inclusion of avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats and around 9 grams of fiber, supporting digestion and heart health. Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onions contribute essential vitamins like A, C, and K, plus antioxidants. Your salad delivers a balanced mix of macronutrients and micronutrients suitable for a nutritious, satisfying meal.
Storage
Store leftover Double Chicken Avocado Salad in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. To prevent the avocado from browning, squeeze a little lime juice over the slices before storing. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to preserve the salad's crisp textures and vibrant flavors for your next meal.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap grilled chicken breasts with tender grilled shrimp or seared salmon fillets for a seafood twist that adds omega-3s and a rich flavor. Replace honey in the dressing with agave nectar or maple syrup to accommodate vegan preferences while maintaining sweetness. You can substitute mixed salad greens with baby spinach or arugula to introduce a different texture and peppery note to the salad. For an extra crunch, toss in toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds before serving, enhancing both flavor and nutritional value.
Allergies
The Double Chicken Avocado Salad contains common allergens such as garlic and honey, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Avocado, although rare, can also trigger allergies, especially if you have latex sensitivity. Be mindful of the ingredients in the cilantro-lime dressing, as the olive oil and lime juice may affect those with specific food intolerances.
Why this recipe?
The Double Chicken Avocado Salad from El Pollo Loco is loved for its fresh, tender grilled chicken paired with creamy avocado slices, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal. Rich in protein and healthy fats, this salad offers a balanced combination that supports a healthy lifestyle while bursting with vibrant flavors. Making the copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your taste and control the quality and freshness of every component in your salad. Your homemade Double Chicken Avocado Salad can replicate the restaurant's delicious taste while giving you the freedom to enjoy a wholesome, cost-effective meal at home.