Margarita Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Make this Margarita Chicken Salad Sandwiches recipe.
Make this Margarita Chicken Salad Sandwiches recipe.
- kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 avocado diced
- 1 mango diced
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons triple sec
- 2 stalks celery thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon tequila
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 8 ounces cherry tomatoes cut in half (i recommend all red)
- 6 large leaves romaine lettuce
- 6 croissants split
- Carbohydrate 42.3678997471115 g
- Cholesterol 125.214524866667 mg
- Fat 31.0532427255414 g
- Fiber 5.53522059325287 g
- Protein 41.4316949825095 g
- Saturated Fat 9.47121920039852 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (403g)
- Sodium 1146.8529162229 mg
- Sugar 36.8326791538586 g
- Trans Fat 2.77973038918642 g
- Calories 621 calories
Step-by-step
- For the chicken: Whisk together orange juice, tequila, lime juice, triple sec, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and garlic in a medium bowl. Marinate chicken in this mixture for 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat, drizzle with olive oil. Remove chicken from marinade (discard marinade). Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper, grill for about 6 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat, cover with foil, and let rest while preparing the dressing.
- For the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, sugar, chili powder, cumin, and salt in a small bowl.
- For the salad and sandwich: Dice grilled chicken. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, celery, avocado, mango, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with dressing and toss.
- Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each croissant. Top with chicken salad. Add the top halves, cut in half, and add a toothpick to each.
A Taste of Mexico in Every Bite: My Margarita Chicken Salad Sandwiches
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the constant need to keep everyone (including myself!) happy and well-fed. That's why I love recipes that are both flavorful and quick to prepare. These Margarita Chicken Salad Sandwiches are my new go-to – a vibrant, zesty twist on a classic that's perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
The inspiration for this recipe came from a recent trip to Mexico. The fresh flavors, the vibrant colours, the sheer energy of the country – it all sparked a creative flame in my kitchen. I wanted to capture the essence of those sun-drenched days, the taste of freshly squeezed lime and the subtle kick of chili, all in a recipe that would fit seamlessly into my busy week. The result? These incredible sandwiches! The chicken, marinated in a tequila-lime mixture, is juicy and full of flavour. The creamy avocado and sweet mango add a wonderful textural contrast, while the crisp celery and cilantro provide a refreshing crunch. The homemade dressing, a simple yet sophisticated blend of lime juice, orange juice, and chili powder, brings everything together beautifully. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.
What sets these sandwiches apart is the unexpected combination of flavors. The tequila in the marinade adds a unique depth, while the chili powder and cumin provide a subtle warmth. The sweetness of the mango perfectly complements the tartness of the lime juice, creating a symphony of tastes in every bite. The use of croissants instead of ordinary bread elevates the sandwich, adding a delicate flakiness that makes it truly special. It's a taste of Mexico, right in my own kitchen – and best of all, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight!
Beyond the Recipe: These sandwiches are incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking. For example, if you're not a fan of tequila, you can substitute it with more orange juice or even a splash of white wine. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add some grilled peppers or onions for extra flavor, or change up the bread. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can easily make a larger batch ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers for lunch throughout the week. The chicken salad keeps well in the refrigerator, making it a perfect grab-and-go meal for busy days.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey. It transports you to sun-drenched beaches, to the bustling markets of a vibrant culture. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time to create something delicious and nourishing. It's about savoring the moment, appreciating the simple pleasures, and sharing a taste of something truly special with loved ones. So, next time you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and memorable meal, look no further. These Margarita Chicken Salad Sandwiches are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – and a perfect escape from the everyday.
Serving Suggestions: Serve these sandwiches alongside a fresh side salad or some tortilla chips and salsa for a complete and satisfying meal. They're also delicious paired with a light and refreshing margarita (of course!). Enjoy!
