These Taco Salad Bowls with Shredded Chicken are a fresh and fun meal! You’ll love the mix of crispy lettuce, zesty chicken, and colorful toppings all in one bowl.
Making these bowls is a breeze! I like to pile mine high with avocado and salsa because who can resist extra toppings? They’re perfect for lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is my go-to for speed and flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using seasoned tofu or blackened mushrooms instead!
Taco Seasoning: You can buy taco seasoning or make your own with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. A pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice touch too.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. You could substitute with pinto beans or chickpeas for a different taste, or even use lentils for a twist.
Corn: Fresh corn is lovely when in season, but canned or frozen corn works just as well. For a different flavor, you could use diced bell peppers!
Avocado: If avocados aren’t your thing or are too pricey, you can replace them with sliced cucumbers for freshness or a dollop of guacamole.
How Do I Layer My Taco Salad Bowls for Maximum Flavor?
Layering is key to creating delicious taco salad bowls. Start with a solid base and then build from there to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Begin with chopped romaine lettuce as your foundation; it’s crispy and adds volume.
- Next, generously spoon the seasoned chicken atop the lettuce.
- Then, add black beans and corn for a satisfying texture contrast.
- Scatter cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color, followed by the shredded cheese which nicely melts slightly from the warm chicken.
- Finish with avocado and salsa for creaminess and zest; don’t forget the sour cream if you’re using it!
Serve with tortilla chips on the side for some extra crunch. Enjoy every layer!
How to Make Taco Salad Bowls With Shredded Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Tortilla chips (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Taco Salad Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you decide to heat the chicken, it’ll take an additional 5-7 minutes. Overall, you’ll be enjoying your meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the taco seasoning. Use a fork or spoon to mix well, ensuring all the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning. This is where all that delicious flavor starts!
2. Heating the Chicken (Optional):
If you like your chicken warm, transfer the seasoned chicken to a skillet. Heat it over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. If you prefer it cold, you can skip this step and go straight to assembling the salad.
3. Assembling the Salad Bowls:
In your serving bowls, start by adding a generous layer of chopped romaine lettuce at the bottom. This will be the fresh and crunchy base of your salad!
4. Adding the Chicken:
Next, evenly distribute the seasoned shredded chicken on top of the lettuce. Make sure everyone gets a good amount of chicken in their bowl for that satisfying topping!
5. Layering the Goodies:
Now it’s time to add the rest of the tasty ingredients. Spoon in the black beans, corn, and halved cherry tomatoes, making sure each bowl gets an even share of these flavorful items.
6. Topping It Off:
Finish each bowl with a layer of shredded cheese, followed by sliced avocado, and a nice spoonful of salsa on top. You’re really building up some great flavors here!
7. Optional Sour Cream:
If you love sour cream, add a dollop on top of each salad for some creamy goodness. It really adds to the taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your Taco Salad Bowls immediately with a side of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or topping. Enjoy each colorful, tasty bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe. Just shred the chicken as you normally would and mix it with the taco seasoning. You can skip heating it if you prefer a cold salad.
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 teaspoon each of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preference!
How to Store Leftover Taco Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the unassembled ingredients separate in airtight containers. The chicken, beans, and dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble your salad fresh when you are ready to eat to keep everything crispy!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the shredded chicken and add more beans or include other proteins like grilled tofu or tempeh. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition!
