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southwest chicken salad

Healthy Southwest Chicken Salad (30-Minutes)

Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, Tex-Mex-inspired dish packed with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and crisp greens, all tossed in a creamy chipotle lime dressing. It’s a healthy, high-protein meal that’s perfect for meal prep, lunch, or dinner.
Ready in 30 minutes, customizable, and bursting with bold flavors - this salad is a must-try!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American, Tex-Mex
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
  • 6 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens chopped
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado diced
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips

For the Creamy Chipotle Dressing:

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayo for a richer dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for a milder version
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Rub the seasoning onto the chicken breasts.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred it.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

  • In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
  • Add the shredded or sliced chicken on top.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, chipotle powder, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  • Drizzle the chipotle dressing over the salad.
  • Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  • Top with shredded cheese and crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!
Keyword Southwest Chicken Salad