Description
This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad features grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, creamy avocado, red onion, and cheddar cheese, all tossed in a tangy lime dressing infused with chili powder and cumin. This protein-rich, vibrant salad makes a refreshing and wholesome meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked grilled chicken, sliced
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
Lime Dressing
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, rinsed black beans, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix evenly.
- Add Grilled Chicken: Arrange the sliced cooked grilled chicken on top of the mixed salad ingredients, distributing it evenly for balanced flavor in each serving.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared lime dressing over the salad and chicken evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful and zesty.
- Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients with the dressing, being careful not to mash the avocado. Serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
Notes
- Add crunchy tortilla strips as a topping for extra texture and flavor contrast.
- This salad is ideal for meal prep; store the dressing separately and add just before serving to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Southwestern
