Description
Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish packed with juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, black beans, corn, and a tangy lime dressing. Perfect for a light meal or meal prep, this salad is nutritious and satisfying with its flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for dressing)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- For the Chicken: Season the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Let the chicken rest before slicing into thin strips.
- For the Salad: Assemble the salad by adding mixed greens, tomatoes, corn, black beans, red onion, and avocado to a large bowl.
- For the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
- Assemble the Salad: Add sliced chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle the dressing over and toss until well coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and fresh cilantro on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Grilled Chicken: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking it.
- Add More Veggies: Add bell peppers, cucumber, or roasted sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: Add more cayenne or diced jalapeños for more heat.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
- Crunchy Texture: Add nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Southwest
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
