Description
Looking for a healthy high-protein meal that’s easy to prep? Try this Southwest Chicken Salad! Packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and bold flavors, it’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. This one-pot dinner is a delicious way to stay on track with your goals.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup corn, fresh or canned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, sliced thin
- 1 avocado, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or cotija cheese (optional)
- ½ cup crispy tortilla strips (optional)
For the Southwest Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add chopped romaine lettuce.
- Top with black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro.
- Add the sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently.
- Sprinkle with cheese and tortilla strips if using.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, flavorful Southwest Chicken Salad!
Notes
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for extra flavor.
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Make it spicier by adding diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
Prep in advance by chopping veggies and storing them separately.
For a lighter option, use a vinaigrette instead of a creamy dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes