Description
Southwest chicken salad delivers a zesty fiesta of flavors that dance across your plate. Crisp greens, spicy grilled chicken, and bold southwestern ingredients create a refreshing meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Fruits:
- 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or your favorite mix)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Create a flavorful spice blend by combining chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Heat the grill to medium temperature and cook the seasoned chicken breasts, ensuring each side achieves a golden-brown crust and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
- Allow the grilled chicken to rest and cool slightly, then slice into uniform strips for optimal salad distribution.
- Construct the salad foundation using crisp mixed greens as the base layer in a spacious serving bowl.
- Artfully arrange cherry tomatoes, black beans, roasted corn kernels, creamy avocado slices, thinly sliced red onion, sharp cheddar cheese, and freshly chopped cilantro across the greens.
- Prepare the signature southwest dressing by whisking Greek yogurt with tangy lime juice, smooth olive oil, and a complementary blend of spices until achieving a silky, well-integrated consistency.
- Gently cascade the dressing over the salad components, using a light tossing motion to ensure each ingredient receives a delicate coating.
- Crown the salad with the perfectly grilled chicken strips, creating an appetizing visual and flavor profile.
- Serve immediately to preserve the salad’s vibrant textures and temperatures, presenting a complete southwestern-inspired culinary experience.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in spices for deeper flavor absorption before grilling, enhancing overall taste profile.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exact internal temperature, preventing dryness and guaranteeing food safety.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt for vegan or lactose-intolerant dietary needs.
- Quickly chill grilled chicken by placing sliced strips on a cold plate to maintain juiciness and prevent overcooking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg