Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe

Craving Something Fresh? Try This Quick and Easy Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe!

You know that moment — it’s 5 PM, you’ve been juggling a million things all day, and suddenly you realize you have no idea what’s for dinner. You want something fresh, healthy, easy to make, and ideally something the kids and your partner won’t turn their noses up at. That’s exactly how I found myself stumbling into this recipe.

I was craving something zesty but light, comforting but not heavy — and that’s when the thought of Ensalada de Pollo, or Mexican chicken salad, popped into my head. The best part? It’s quick, high-protein, and simple to throw together with things I already had on hand. It felt like a kitchen win.

So today, I’m excited to share this recipe that has become a staple in our weekly rotation. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a family picnic, or just want a nutritious and flavorful meal with minimal effort, this Mexican chicken salad recipe (easy version!) is for you.

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What Is Ensalada de Pollo?

Ensalada de Pollo is the Spanish term for “chicken salad,” but don’t mistake it for the mayonnaise-heavy, bland versions you might be used to. The authentic Mexican version is bursting with vibrant vegetables, creamy dressing, and deliciously shredded chicken — it’s refreshing, satisfying, and layered with flavor.

It’s also deeply traditional in many Mexican households, often making an appearance at birthdays, potlucks, and holiday parties. This is the homemade version I grew up seeing at family gatherings, with a few modern tweaks for busy weekday life.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes

Healthy – Full of veggies, lean protein, and fiber

Versatile – Serve it chilled, in wraps, or on tostadas

High Protein – Great post-workout or light dinner option

Kid-Friendly and Party-Perfect

If you love meals that are easy, fresh, and fuss-free, this one will become a favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Exact Measurements)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this best Mexican chicken salad recipe, perfect for 4 servings:

Main Ingredients:

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (about 2 large breasts or 3 thighs)

1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium carrots)

1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)

1/2 cup canned sweet corn, drained

1/2 cup diced celery

1/4 cup diced red onion (optional for crunch and flavor)

1 medium russet potato, peeled and diced

1/4 cup diced pickled jalapeños (optional, for a spicy kick)

Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise (or substitute with Greek yogurt)

1/4 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings (Optional but recommended):

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Additional lime wedges

Sliced avocado

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook and Shred the Chicken

If you don’t have leftover chicken, simply boil 2 large chicken breasts in salted water for 15–18 minutes, then shred using two forks.

Pro Tip: Use a stand mixer on low to shred the chicken in under 30 seconds — life-changing!

2. Boil the Potatoes and Carrots

Boil the diced potato and carrot in lightly salted water for 10 minutes or until tender but not mushy. Drain and cool.

3. Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, boiled veggies, corn, peas, celery, onion, and jalapeños. Pour the dressing over and mix gently until fully coated.

5. Chill and Serve

Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with cilantro, serve with crackers, tostadas, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.

My Must-Have Kitchen Tools for This Recipe (From Amazon)

1. KitchenAid Classic Series Stand Mixer

If you're shredding chicken often, this stand mixer is a game-changer. Just toss your cooked chicken into the bowl with the paddle attachment and watch it transform in 15 seconds.

Buy it on Amazon – Save time and save your wrists!

No more fork-shredding marathons — this will seriously change your prep game.

2. Mueller Pro Series 10-in-1 Vegetable Chopper

Dicing carrots, onions, and potatoes takes a while — unless you have this genius tool. It cuts prep time in half, and everything comes out uniform and beautiful.

Check it out on Amazon – Perfect for busy weeknights.

Level up your chopping game with zero mess and consistent results.

3. Large Glass Mixing Bowls with Lids (Set of 3)

These are ideal for making, storing, and serving your ensalada de pollo. The lids help lock in freshness, and the bowls are microwave- and dishwasher-safe.

Shop now on Amazon – Because who has time for extra dishes?

Double up as serving bowls for easy, elegant entertaining.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is delightfully versatile. Here’s how I love to serve it:

In a lettuce wrap with sliced avocado for a low-carb lunch

Piled high on tostadas with hot sauce

In a sandwich bun or bolillo roll for a hearty lunch

Alongside tortilla chips as a party dip

With a chilled agua fresca or sparkling lime water

It’s one of those dishes that adapts to your day — light when you want it to be, filling when needed.

Variations and Healthy Swaps

Want to make it even healthier or change it up? Try these:

Swap mayo for Greek yogurt for more protein and fewer calories

Use grilled chicken breast for a smoky flavor

Add black beans or chickpeas for more fiber

Mix in diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats

Use dairy-free crema or yogurt for a lactose-free option

This recipe is simple and forgiving — make it your own!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Perfect for meal prep!

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days

Do not freeze (the creamy base doesn’t thaw well)

Always stir before serving again to remix the dressing

Final Thoughts: Why This Is the Best Mexican Chicken Salad Recipe

From the moment I took my first bite of this chilled, creamy, veggie-packed bowl of goodness, I knew it would become a regular in my recipe rotation. It’s not just about the flavor — it’s about how easy and satisfying it is. And as someone who writes about food all day long, I’m always on the hunt for high-protein, simple meals that actually feel joyful to eat. This one checks all the boxes.

If you’ve been craving something fresh that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, I hope you’ll give this traditional Mexican chicken salad a try. Whether you're a busy mom, a wellness-focused woman, or someone who just loves good food, this is the kind of authentic, homemade dish that fits into your life beautifully.

Have you made your own version of Ensalada de Pollo? Share your twist in the comments below — I'd love to hear how you make it your own!

Quick Recap

Authentic and traditional flavors

Simple, healthy, high-protein ingredients

Ready in under 30 minutes

Budget-friendly and pantry staple–friendly

Customizable to your taste and spice level