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Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad


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  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

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

  1. 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.
  2. Grill or cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, and red onion.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, lime juice, honey, and smoked paprika to make the dressing.
  5. Add the sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle the dressing over the top.
  6. 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