Name: Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Southwest
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, diced; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime

Hey y'all! If you're craving something vibrant, healthy, and bursting with bold flavors, you're in for a treat with this Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try! Perfect for summer get-togethers, meal prepping, or a hearty lunch, this salad combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and a tangy homemade dressing that ties it all together. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

Bold, zesty flavors that excite your taste buds in every bite.
Quick and easy to make—dinner in just 30 minutes!
Loaded with protein and fresh veggies for a nutritious meal.
Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light weeknight dinner.
Customizable with your favorite Southwest-inspired toppings.

Ingredients for Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
⅓ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for topping
For the Southwest Dressing:
⅓ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Directions: Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

Step 1: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 400°F/205°C).
Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is nicely charred.
Set aside to rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 2: Prep the Salad Ingredients

While the chicken cooks, chop romaine lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, dice bell pepper, and dice the avocado.
Rinse and drain the black beans and corn if using canned.

Step 3: Make the Southwest Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and chopped cilantro until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, red bell pepper, cheddar cheese, and chopped cilantro.
Top with grilled chicken strips and diced avocado.
Drizzle with Southwest dressing and toss gently to combine. Garnish with tortilla strips or chips for crunch.

Notes for Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

For extra juicy chicken, let it marinate for up to 30 minutes before grilling. Learn more about marinating chicken from Simply Recipes.
If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save a step.
Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream in the dressing for a richer tang.

Variations: Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

Vegetarian: Omit chicken and double the black beans or add grilled tofu.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Low-Carb: Leave out the tortilla chips and use extra greens for a lighter bowl.

Required Equipment for Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

Grill or grill pan
Mixing bowls
Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Salad bowl
Tongs or salad servers

Storage Instructions for Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

Store leftover salad (without dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with warm, fluffy cornbread or a side of tortilla chips.
Pair with a refreshing iced tea or a citrusy margarita for a festive meal.
Add a simple fruit salad for a colorful, balanced plate.

Pro Tips for Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

For maximum flavor, let the chicken cool slightly before slicing to lock in juices.
Massage the dressing into the lettuce just before serving for a restaurant-style texture. Find more salad assembly tips at Love & Lemons.
Always taste and adjust seasoning in the dressing to suit your preference.

FAQ: Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prep all ingredients and store separately; assemble and dress just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken if I don’t have a grill?: You can sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side or bake at 400°F (205°C) for 18-20 minutes until cooked through.
Is this salad gluten-free?: Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free tortilla strips or leave them out for a completely gluten-free dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try!