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Southwestern Chicken Salad


  • Author: recipeshub24
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A comforting salad with smoky flavors, fresh ingredients, and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced or cubed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cooked corn kernels
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or cotija cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • Lime wedge for serving

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle evenly with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the spices.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook 4 to 6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside to rest, then slice.
  3. Char the corn: In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed and toss in the corn kernels. Cook until lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust.
  5. Build the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onion, charred corn, and cilantro. Drizzle half the dressing and toss lightly to coat.
  6. Finish and serve: Arrange sliced chicken and avocado over the greens, sprinkle shredded cheese, and drizzle the remaining dressing. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

For a smoky boost, grill the chicken outdoors and char the corn on the grill. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored separately for meal prep.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: salad, chicken recipe, healthy dinner, quick meal, Southwest flavors