Description
Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish bursting with flavor, perfect for summer barbecues, quick lunches, or meal prep. This salad combines grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy avocado dressing that adds a refreshing twist to your usual salad routine. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal option. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or side, this salad is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy days. Experience the joy of fresh ingredients and bold southwestern flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a grill pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, black beans, corn, and chopped cilantro.
- For the dressing, blend avocado with lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add sliced chicken to the salad mix. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg