Chicken Taco Mason Jar Salads Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Taco Mason Jar Salads are the ultimate meal prep solution, combining the bold flavors of a taco salad with the convenience of a jar. The layers of seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, cheese, and fresh veggies are topped with a tangy taco dressing, making each bite packed with flavor. Perfect for on-the-go lunches or a healthy dinner, these mason jar salads are not only delicious but also a fun and easy way to stay organized throughout the week. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite taco toppings for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (can substitute with mayonnaise or sour cream)
• ½ cup taco sauce (can substitute with your favorite salsa, but it will create a thicker and chunkier dressing, so you may need to thin it with a little bit of water or milk)

For the Salad:

• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 12 ounces cooked diced Southwestern-seasoned chicken (or any cooked chicken seasoned with taco or southwest seasoning)
• 1 cup black beans (from a 15-ounce can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn (can use fresh, frozen, or canned, and drained)
• 1 cup halved grape or cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup (4 ounces) Sargento® Fine Cut Shredded 4 Cheese Mexican

For the Jars:

• 4 16-ounce (pint-size) wide-mouth mason jars* (If you want extra room for more lettuce at the top, you can use quart-size jars)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise/sour cream), taco sauce (or salsa), until completely combined. Set aside.
2. Layer the Jars:
   In each mason jar, place an equal amount of dressing at the bottom. Then, layer the ingredients in the following order:
   • 1st layer: Chicken
   • 2nd layer: Black beans
   • 3rd layer: Corn
   • 4th layer: Shredded cheese
   • 5th layer: Grape or cherry tomatoes
   • 6th layer: Chopped romaine lettuce (top it off with lettuce as the last layer to prevent it from getting soggy).
3. Seal and Refrigerate:
   Twist the lids onto the mason jars to seal them and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Serve:
   When you’re ready to eat, simply dump the contents of the mason jar onto a large plate or bowl and toss everything together to mix the dressing with the salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 10-15 minutes

Variations and Tips

• Spicy Kick: Add some pickled jalapeños for an extra spicy touch.
• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado are great additions to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Tortilla Chips: Crush a few tortilla chips and add them as a crunchy topping right before serving.
• Extra Spices: Add chili powder, paprika, or cumin to the dressing for an added depth of flavor.
• Layering Tips: Always add the salad dressing first, followed by ingredients that won’t get soggy, such as beans, corn, and cheese. Keep lettuce and croutons at the top to prevent them from wilting or getting soggy.
• Larger Jars: For more room to add extra lettuce, opt for quart-sized mason jars.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These mason jar salads can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The layers will keep their freshness, especially when the dressing is kept at the bottom.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. Just shake and toss before serving!

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can make it vegan by substituting the chicken with roasted veggies or tofu, using a dairy-free cheese, and opting for a plant-based yogurt for the dressing.

Can I use cooked chicken that I prepare myself?

Absolutely! You can season your own chicken with taco seasoning or Southwest seasoning and cook it in a skillet or oven before adding it to the jars.

How do I prevent the lettuce from getting soggy?

By layering the dressing at the bottom and keeping the lettuce at the top, it stays fresh and crisp until you’re ready to serve.

How can I make this salad spicier?

For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just pour it into the mason jars when you’re ready to assemble the salads.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as the taco sauce and other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken Taco Mason Jar Salads are a simple, healthy, and fun way to enjoy a taco salad in a portable and organized way. Packed with protein, fiber, and all your favorite taco flavors, these salads are perfect for meal prep or a quick and easy lunch. With plenty of room for customization, you can tailor the ingredients to your taste. Plus, they stay fresh in the fridge, making them a great option for a week’s worth of meals!

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