Delicious Ensalada de Pollo – A Fresh & Easy Recipe

Name: Ensalada de Pollo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt & pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

January 30, 2026

Updated:

January 30, 2026

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There’s something about ensalada de pollo that just hits the spot. Picture this: tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a dressing that dances on your taste buds like no one’s watching. The aromas wafting from your kitchen will have everyone wondering what culinary magic you’ve conjured up today.

Now, let me take you down memory lane for a moment. I remember the first time I made ensalada de pollo for a summer barbecue. My friends took one bite and suddenly, it was like I had just released the secret to happiness! This dish is perfect for sunny days or a cozy dinner in. Trust me, once you taste it, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This refreshing ensalada de pollo is quick and easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners a breeze

The combination of spices and herbs creates an explosion of flavor in every bite
Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any table setting

Enjoy it as a stand-alone meal or as a side dish at gatherings

When I served this to my family, they practically licked their plates clean!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.

Fresh Lettuce: Use crisp romaine or butter lettuce for the best crunch and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness; choose bright red ones for maximum flavor.
Cucumber: A refreshing addition; pick one that’s firm and not too seedy.

Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of zing; soak in water briefly to mellow the flavor if desired.
Fresh Herbs (Cilantro or Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so don’t skip them; they make all the difference!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors; bottled juice simply won’t cut it.

Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness and depth.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Chicken: Begin by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper before placing it on the hot surface. Cook each side until golden brown and juices run clear—about 6-7 minutes per side.

Prep Your Veggies: While the chicken cooks, chop up your lettuce into bite-sized pieces and slice those cherry tomatoes in half. Dice cucumber into refreshing chunks—trust me, this adds great texture!

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple dressing brings everything to life with its zesty brightness—and who doesn’t love easy?

Toss It All Together: Once your chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, fresh herbs, and chicken slices. Drizzle your dressing over everything generously.

Serve & Enjoy!: Plate this colorful ensalada de pollo beautifully! You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to let flavors meld together even more—if you can wait that long!

This delightful ensalada de pollo is not just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen! Your friends will rave about it for weeks after their first bite!

You Must Know

Ensalada de pollo is not just a salad; it’s a colorful fiesta on your plate!

The combination of juicy chicken and fresh veggies guarantees a flavor explosion
Don’t forget the dressing; it’s the secret to bringing all those delightful ingredients together

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling or roasting the chicken for maximum flavor, then let it rest before slicing. While the chicken cools, chop your vegetables and prepare the dressing for an efficient cooking process.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have. Add fruits like mango or nuts like walnuts for extra texture and flavor. You can also play with dressings—try a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy ranch twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm the chicken in a pan, ensuring you don’t dry it out while keeping the veggies fresh.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Keep your chicken juicy by not overcooking it; aim for 165°F internal temperature

Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavors that elevate every bite
Toss your salad right before serving to keep everything crisp and delicious

Cooking ensalada de pollo reminds me of family gatherings where everyone had their own twist on the recipe, making each one special and uniquely tasty.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for ensalada de pollo?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken saves time and adds great flavor.

What type of dressing works best?

A zesty vinaigrette or creamy dressing complements the flavors brilliantly; choose based on your taste preferences.

How can I make this dish more filling?

Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for added protein and texture that keeps you satisfied longer.

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