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–+ servings
Southwest Chicken Salad

Healthy Southwest Chicken Salad That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a flavorful, healthy dish perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Can be swapped for grilled halloumi for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to use avocado oil.
  • 2 teaspoons Chili Powder Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Coriander can be a great substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic also works well.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion may change texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is a substitute.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Salad Base
  • 6 cups Romaine Lettuce Mixed greens can be an alternative.
  • 1 can Black Beans Rinse and drain before use.
  • 1 cup Corn Kernels Use fresh, frozen, or canned.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Yellow or green bell peppers can be swapped.
  • ½ medium Red Onion Green onions can substitute for milder flavor.
  • 1 medium Avocado Drizzle with lime juice to prevent browning.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes are a perfect alternative.
  • ¼ cup Cilantro Parsley can work as a substitute.
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup Greek Yogurt Sour cream can easily be used as a replacement.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Lemon juice is an excellent substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey or Agave Nectar Can be omitted for sugar-free option.
For Optional Toppings
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Consider a dairy-free cheese for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup Crushed Tortilla Chips Adds a fun texture contrast.
  • ¼ cup Pickled Jalapeños Adjust based on heat tolerance.
  • ½ cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a lighter option.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • salad bowl

Method
 

Chicken Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the spice mixture over both sides of each chicken breast.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
  6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Slice or shred the chicken after resting.
Salad Assembly
  1. In a large salad bowl, place chopped romaine lettuce.
  2. Toss in the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. Incorporate the sliced or shredded chicken into the salad bowl.
  4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salad mixture.
  5. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad until evenly coated.
  6. Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine.
  7. If desired, add optional toppings.
  8. Serve the Southwest Chicken Salad fresh.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for a quick and healthy meal, and you can customize it to suit your taste.

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