Description
A flavorful and filling Southwest chicken salad recipe made with smoky grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cilantro-lime dressing.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
Tortilla strips or crushed chips
½ cup shredded cheddar or cotija cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Season chicken with chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill chicken over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
3. In a large bowl, combine romaine, black beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, and cheese.
4. Whisk together dressing (see notes) or use store-bought southwest or chipotle ranch.
5. Top salad with sliced chicken, avocado, tortilla strips, and cilantro.
6. Drizzle with dressing just before serving.
Notes
For homemade dressing: Mix ¼ cup Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 clove minced garlic, and 2 tbsp chopped cilantro.
Add a pinch of chipotle powder or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwest
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 large bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg