Description
Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant dish featuring grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or meal prep, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and crunch, making it both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese (optional)
- Tortilla chips (optional, for crunch)
- For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Grill or cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or cubes.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently. Add the sliced chicken and avocado on top.
- Drizzle with dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Top with shredded cheese and tortilla chips if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later. Enjoy your Southwest Chicken Salad!
Notes
- Grilled chicken or beef: Swap chicken for grilled steak, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for extra heat.
- Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for added crunch and color.
- Dressing variations: Substitute Greek yogurt with ranch or avocado dressing for different flavors.
- Grain bowl: Serve with quinoa, rice, or couscous for a more filling meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
