Southwest Chicken Salad
A vibrant, protein-packed main dish salad with grilled Southwest-seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, fresh veggies, and a creamy lime dressing. Perfect for hot summer days and feeding a crowd.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: No-Cook/Assemble
- Cuisine: Southwest
- Diet: High-Protein
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Southwest seasoning blend (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika)
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
1 large red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1 large avocado, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Dressing:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
3 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp honey or agave nectar
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp salt
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with oil and Southwest blend. Grill or pan-cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes, then dice.
- Whisk all dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- In a large bowl, layer lettuce, then top with diced chicken, beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, avocado, and tomatoes.
- Drizzle dressing over salad, toss gently to combine, and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- For quicker prep, use shredded rotisserie chicken seasoned with Southwest spices.
- Prep components separately up to a day ahead; combine just before serving.
- For a dairy-free dressing, use unsweetened plant-based yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Find it online: https://prepmealkitchen.com/southwest-chicken-salad-2/