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Fresh Southwest Chicken Salad featuring seasoned grilled chicken strips, avocado, black beans, and corn on crisp romaine with zesty lime-cilantro dressing, showcasing vibrant colors and textures.

Southwest Chicken Salad


  • Author: Stephanie
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Southwest Chicken Salad combines perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado with a zesty lime-cilantro dressing. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

  • 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen (thawed)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 large avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)

For the Lime-Cilantro Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry, drizzle with olive oil, and rub the spice mixture all over both sides.
  3. Cook chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain into strips.
  5. Make the dressing by whisking together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  6. Place chopped romaine in a large bowl, then add black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion.
  7. Arrange sliced chicken on top, add diced avocado, and sprinkle with cilantro and cotija cheese.
  8. Serve with lime-cilantro dressing on the side or drizzled on top.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Cook chicken and prepare dressing up to 3 days in advance.
  • Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  • For extra flavor, try charring the corn before adding to the salad.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and double the black beans.
  • Substitute feta cheese if cotija isn’t available.
  • Store undressed components separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
  • Calories: 425 kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg