Southwest Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold, zesty dish packed with grilled chicken, colorful veggies, black beans, and a creamy dressing with a southwestern kick. It’s hearty enough for a main course yet light and fresh, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. With its blend of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors, this salad is anything but boring.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

grilled or cooked chicken breastsromaine lettuce or mixed greensblack beans (rinsed and drained)corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)cherry tomatoesred onionavocadoshredded cheddar or pepper jack cheesecrushed tortilla chips or stripscilantro (optional for garnish)

For the dressing:
mayolime juiceolive oilgarlic powderchili powdercuminpaprikasalt and pepperhoney (optional)chipotle in adobo or hot sauce (optional for heat)

directions

Grill or cook the chicken breasts, season with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Let rest, then slice.

In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, avocado, and shredded cheese.

In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Add sliced chicken to the salad.

Drizzle with the southwest dressing and toss gently to combine.

Top with crushed tortilla chips and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Serve immediately or keep dressing separate until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10–15 minutes (for chicken)
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for convenience.
Add cooked quinoa or rice for a more filling salad.
Swap out the mayo-based dressing for a vinaigrette or Greek yogurt version.
Top with sliced jalapeños or pickled onions for extra zing.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate and add just before serving.
Reheat chicken separately if serving warm, or enjoy cold.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, just keep the dressing and tortilla chips separate until serving.

Is this salad spicy?

It can be, depending on the dressing—adjust spice to your taste.

What kind of chicken works best?

Grilled, baked, or pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs all work well.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add it just before serving or toss with a little lime juice.

Can I use canned corn?

Yes, rinse and drain before adding.

What dressing alternatives can I use?

Cilantro-lime vinaigrette, ranch, or avocado dressing all work well.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and add extra beans or grilled tofu.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure the chips and dressing ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes, warm chicken and corn pair beautifully with the fresh ingredients.

Conclusion

Southwest Chicken Salad is a flavorful, colorful, and satisfying meal that brings together fresh ingredients and bold seasoning in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or prepping lunches ahead of time, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed dish with a spicy southwestern twist.

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