### Picante Chicken Salad Recipe: A Flavorful Summer Delight
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional chicken salads? Try this Picante Chicken Salad, which combines juicy, tender chicken with vibrant picante sauce to create a dish perfect for any summer gathering or meal!
#### Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons picante sauce (such as Tabasco)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken**:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag.
- Gently pound each breast until they are about 1/2 inch thick and even in thickness.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. **Cook the Chicken**:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to an oven-safe dish and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked.
3. **Shred the Chicken**:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Once cooled enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
4. **Prepare the Salad Mixture**:
- In a large bowl, combine diced celery, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- Add shredded chicken to the vegetables and mix well.
5. **Add Picante Sauce and Seasonings**:
- Pour picante sauce over the chicken salad mixture.
- Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a bit of sugar for balance.
6. **Serve Fresh and Enjoy!**:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve chilled as a light lunch or dinner side dish.
#### Tips & Tricks:
- **Picante Sauce Variations**: Feel free to experiment with different picante sauces, such as harissa or hot sauce, to add varying levels of heat and flavor.
- **Storage**: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, let it sit at room temperature before serving.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create a delicious Picante Chicken Salad that's perfect for any occasion! Perfect your recipe with these SEO-friendly tips and keywords, making it easy for others to find and try this vibrant dish.