Description
A fresh and vibrant Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad featuring grilled chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and a creamy, tangy dressing with smoky southwestern flavors. Perfect for a light meal or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1/4 cup avocado, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or a stovetop pan over medium heat. Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill or cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, lime juice, honey, and smoked paprika to make the dressing.
- Add the sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle the dressing over the top.
- Toss everything to combine and top with cilantro, avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese if using.
Notes
Use grilled shrimp or tofu as a protein alternative.
Add tortilla strips for extra crunch.
Skip the cheese for a dairy-free version.
Add hot sauce or diced jalapeƱos for more spice.
Store salad components separately to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwest
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg