Description
This Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, zesty dish loaded with smoky grilled chicken, crisp greens, creamy avocado, black beans, and a kick of heat. Tossed with a tangy Southwest dressing, itโs a healthy and satisfying meal thatโs perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Units
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For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or grilled)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Tortilla strips (for garnish, optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Make the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange mixed greens in a large serving bowl or individual plates. Top with cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado slices, shredded cheese, red onion, and sliced chicken.
- Add Dressing and Serve: Drizzle the Southwest dressing over the salad. Garnish with tortilla strips if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a smoky twist, grill the corn before adding it to the salad.
- Swap Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dressing for a richer flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg