Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad, a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. This salad combines succulent grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy avocado dressing to create a delightful medley of taste and texture. Ideal for summer barbecues, quick lunches, or light dinners at home, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this meal is not only satisfying but also customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you enjoy it on its own, as a wrap, or over grains like rice or quinoa, this salad will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill in olive oil over medium heat until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F), about 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, black beans, corn, and cilantro.
- Blend avocado with lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Toss sliced chicken with salad mix and drizzle with avocado dressing. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 80mg