Description
This flavorful Southwestern Chicken Salad is packed with grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, black beans, and a zesty lime dressing. It’s a satisfying and colorful meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste (for dressing)
Instructions
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let rest, then slice thinly.
- In a large bowl, combine lettuce, black beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Add sliced chicken to the salad and drizzle with the dressing.
- Toss gently to combine and top with shredded cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before grilling.
- You can substitute grilled steak or shrimp for the chicken.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy touch.
- Make it vegan by omitting the chicken and cheese, and using plant-based protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: southwestern chicken salad, grilled chicken salad, healthy salad, gluten free salad, easy lunch recipe