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The Best Southwest Chicken Salad

The Best Southwest Chicken Salad You'll Crave Every Summer

The Best Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish, perfect for summer gatherings with its seasoned grilled chicken and colorful toppings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts/Thighs Thighs offer more juiciness and flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 head Romaine Lettuce Rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • 1 can Black Beans Rinse well before adding.
  • 1 cup Corn Freshly roasted or frozen.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can swap with diced regular tomatoes.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Adds vibrant color.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Serve raw or pickled.
  • 1 piece Avocado Toss in just before serving.
  • 1 cup Cheese (Cheddar/Monterey Jack/Pepper Jack) Leave out for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup Tortilla Chips/Strips For crunch.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Can substitute with vegan yogurt.
  • 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise Optional for a lighter version.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Fresh is best.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Can swap with agave syrup.
  • ¼ cup Water Use to thin dressing.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Use ancho chili for milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika For smoky flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the creamy dressing by whisking together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water until desired consistency is reached. Set aside.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  4. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and red onion. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Slice the rested chicken against the grain into strips and arrange it over the salad mix.
  6. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Top with tortilla strips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1salad bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use fresh vegetables for best flavor. Adjust the dressing to your taste preferences.

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