Description
This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is loaded with juicy chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a creamy, tangy dressing! Ready in 20 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Salad Base:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce (or mixed greens)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
For the Southwest Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Crushed tortilla chips for crunch
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mix over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
2. Make the Southwest Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, and red onion.
- Toss lightly, then top with sliced avocado, shredded cheese, and grilled chicken.
4. Drizzle & Serve!
- Drizzle the Southwest dressing over the salad.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, and extra lime wedges.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
✔ Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken – Saves time for busy weeknights.
✔ Grill the chicken for extra flavor – Adds a delicious smoky taste.
✔ Let the chicken rest before slicing – Keeps it juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: LUNCH
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420