What is in a Southwest Chicken Salad?

A typical Southwest Chicken Salad includes grilled chicken, leafy greens, black beans, corn, avocado, tortilla strips, and a zesty dressing like avocado ranch or chipotle lime.

How do I make Southwest Chicken Salad dressing?

You can make a creamy avocado ranch by blending avocado, Greek yogurt, buttermilk, lime juice, garlic, and dill. For a spicy option, try chipotle lime dressing with olive oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers, honey, and garlic.

Is Southwest Chicken Salad healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a balanced meal. To make it even healthier, use a light dressing and skip the tortilla strips.

How long can I store Southwest Chicken Salad?

Store the components separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Assemble just before eating to keep the greens crisp.

How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad: Best Recipe & Tips

Description

A vibrant, flavor-packed Southwest Chicken Salad featuring smoky grilled chicken, crisp greens, creamy avocado, sweet corn, black beans, and a zesty chipotle lime dressing. This salad is a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors, bringing the spirit of Southwest cuisine to your plate. It’s easy to make, customizable, and ideal for meal prep or a quick, nutritious meal.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (grilled or sautéed)
1 avocado, diced
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
½ cup tortilla strips or pepitas (for crunch)

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chipotle Lime Dressing:

¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (adjust for heat)
1 tablespoon honey
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Grill Method:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Skillet Method:

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, then transfer to a 375°F oven for 10 minutes until fully cooked.

Baking Method:

Preheat oven to 400°F.
Place marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

Blend olive oil, lime juice, chipotle pepper, honey, garlic, and salt in a blender until smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning (add honey for sweetness or chipotle for heat).

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, arrange chopped romaine lettuce as the base.
Add black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cheese.
Slice the grilled chicken and place on top.
Sprinkle with cilantro and tortilla strips (or pepitas).
Drizzle with chipotle lime dressing or serve on the side.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Toss the salad gently before serving to distribute flavors evenly.
Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge if desired.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Category: lunch
Cuisine: Southwest, Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: ~500 kcal
Fat: ~20g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fiber: ~10g
Protein: ~30g