Chicken Fajita Salad with Chimichurri Dressing

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dry cilantro
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp chipotle chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp grape seed oil
  • 1 yellow pepper, julienned
  • 1 red pepper, julienned
  • 1 cup pickled red onion
  • 2 avocados, sliced
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, dry cilantro, sea salt, chipotle chili powder, and black pepper.
Season both sides of the chicken breast with spice mixture. Set aside.
Heat large skillet to medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of grape seed oil to the pan and then add julienned peppers. Saute until slightly browned, about 4-5 minutes.
Remove from the pan and then add 1 tablespoon of grape seed oil and then immediately add the seasoned chicken breast. Sear both sides for 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove from the pan and let rest. Slice when the chicken has cooled down.
For the dressing: add garlic clove, fresh cilantro, red wine vinegar, lime juice, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to a small food processor or blender. Blend until the cilantro is finely chopped. Then add olive oil to the food processor and blend until the dressing combines.
To assemble the salad: add green leaf lettuce to a large bowl (or four individual bowls), top with sliced chicken breast, sautéed peppers, pickled onions, and sliced avocado. Serve with chimichurri dressing on the side.