Spicy Winter Chicken Salad with Smoky Chipotle Dressing

Winter Chicken Salad With Chipotle Cream Dressing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Description:
When the chill of winter sets in, this vibrant Winter Chicken Salad With Chipotle Cream Dressing is the perfect remedy to warm you up and brighten your day. Designed for those moments when leftover chicken is at hand, this salad combines crunchy bok choy, sweet carrots, and spicy cilantro with a splash of chipotle heat. The Chipotle Cream Dressing, made with smoky chipotles in adobo sauce, adds a luscious kick to the salad, making it an ideal dish for any winter gathering, including Christmas. The dressing is versatile and can be used to enhance the flavors of grilled chicken, fish, or even as a zesty addition to marinades, soups, and sauces.

Ingredients:

2 cups bok choy, chopped
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded sweet carrots
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 apple, cored and sliced
6 green onions, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, from a can
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
**1/8 teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped bok choy, sliced red cabbage, shredded carrots, cilantro, apple slices, green onions, and celery. Gently toss these ingredients together to ensure they are evenly mixed.
Make the Chipotle Cream Dressing:
- In a blender or food processor, add the chipotle chiles in adobo sauce and blend until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and sour cream. Gradually stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of the chipotle puree, adjusting the amount based on your heat preference. Mix well to incorporate the puree evenly.
- Add the minced garlic, kosher salt, and sea salt to the cream mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the Chipotle Cream Dressing over the prepared salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and pumpkin seeds, if desired, for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Serve:
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The Chipotle Cream Dressing can also be stored separately in the refrigerator for later use.

Enjoy this warming winter salad as a satisfying lunch or a hearty side dish. The smoky chipotle dressing pairs beautifully with the crisp vegetables and tender chicken, creating a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. 🌶️🥗🍏

Nutritional Information (per serving):