This Southwest Chicken Salad is fresh, colorful, and packed with bold flavors. Juicy spiced chicken, crisp greens, creamy avocado, and a zesty southwest dressing come together for a satisfying meal that works perfectly for lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Balanced and filling with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days
Easy to customize based on spice level and ingredients on hand
Perfect for meal prep without sacrificing freshness
A complete meal that feels light yet satisfying
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of ½ medium lime (about 1 tablespoon)
Salad
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup corn, grilled or canned and drained
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium avocado, sliced
½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
½ cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (optional)
Creamy Southwest Dressing
½ cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons salsa
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Directions
Cook the Chicken
Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil. Season evenly with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, salsa, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl, add the chopped greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado slices, shredded cheese, and red onion.
Arrange the sliced chicken over the top.
Finish and Serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Sprinkle with tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips if using, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: about 27 minutes
Variations
Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or an extra ½ teaspoon chili powder to the dressing
Lighter option: Replace half of the ranch dressing with plain Greek yogurt
Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers or cucumber for more crunch
Different protein: Substitute grilled steak or shrimp for the chicken
Dairy-free: Omit cheese and use a dairy-free ranch alternative
Storage/Reheating
Store the salad components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
Reheat only the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not freezer-friendly.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep all components in advance and assemble just before serving for best texture.
What type of greens work best?
Romaine lettuce, spring mix, or a blend of crisp greens work very well.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, as long as the dressing is stored separately and added right before eating.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes until fully cooked.
How can I make the salad less spicy?
Reduce or omit the chili powder in both the chicken seasoning and dressing.
Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, thaw it completely and pat dry before adding to the salad.
What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
You can use a yogurt-based dressing or a mild creamy dressing of your choice.
Is this salad served warm or cold?
It can be served either way, but warm chicken over cool greens is especially tasty.
Can I skip the tortilla strips?
Yes, they are optional and mainly add crunch.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
Add it just before serving or lightly toss it with a bit of lime juice.
Conclusion
Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that delivers freshness and comfort in every bite. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again for an easy, wholesome meal.
This Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, hearty salad featuring spiced grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, avocado, black beans, and a zesty creamy southwest dressing. It’s satisfying, customizable, and perfect for quick lunches or light dinners.
