Name: Quick Southwest Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp cumin; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen); 1 red bell pepper, diced; ¼ cup red onion, diced; 1 avocado, cubed; ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream; 2 tbsp salsa; 1 tsp honey; 1 tbsp lime juice

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, it combines juicy, seasoned chicken with fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, and a zesty dressing. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a refreshing lunch option. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Chicken breast
Olive oil
Chili powder
Cumin
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Romaine lettuce
Cherry tomatoes
Black beans
Corn kernels
Red bell pepper
Red onion
Avocado
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Fresh cilantro
Lime
Greek yogurt or sour cream
Salsa
Honey

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Prepare the Salad Base: Chop the romaine lettuce and place it in a large salad bowl.
Add the Vegetables: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red bell pepper and red onion, and cube the avocado. Add them to the salad along with black beans and corn.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), salsa, honey, and a squeeze of lime juice until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: Top the salad with the sliced chicken and shredded cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the salad and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Variations

Grilled Chicken: Instead of pan-searing, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat.
Vegan Option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Dressing Swap: Use a classic ranch or chipotle mayo for a different taste.
Low-Carb Version: Omit the black beans and corn for a keto-friendly option.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
To enjoy leftovers, reheat the chicken separately and add to the fresh salad before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the avocado to slow down oxidation and keep it fresh longer.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred and season it for extra flavor.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in the dressing?

Sour cream, mayonnaise, or a blend of both can be used as substitutes.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! Store the ingredients separately and assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! Omit the cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dressing.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar, Mexican blend, or even crumbled cotija cheese work well in this recipe.

Can I use canned corn and beans?

Yes, just be sure to rinse and drain them well before adding to the salad.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Add cooked quinoa, brown rice, or extra chicken for a heartier meal.

What other dressings pair well with this salad?

Chipotle ranch, avocado lime dressing, or a classic vinaigrette complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Try tortilla strips, sunflower seeds, or pepitas for extra crunch and flavor.

Conclusion

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you need a speedy weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, this salad is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the Southwest in every bite!

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