Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad
This Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold and flavorful dish featuring juicy grilled chicken seasoned with smoky spices, crisp romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado. Topped with crunchy tortilla strips and a zesty chipotle-lime dressing, this salad is the perfect balance of heat, freshness, and crunch. It’s a healthy yet satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with Tex-Mex flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 avocado sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- Tortilla strips
For the Southwest Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, olive oil, honey, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the mixed greens in a large serving bowl or on individual plates. Layer with cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado slices, shredded cheddar cheese, and red onion. Top with the sliced chicken.
- Drizzle & Serve: Pour the Southwest dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat. Garnish with tortilla strips for an extra crunch if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Why You Will Love Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad
If you’re looking for a salad that is anything but boring, the Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is the perfect choice. It’s a delicious, bold, and satisfying meal that combines the best flavors of the Southwest with a nutritious and balanced mix of ingredients. Whether you love spicy food, crave fresh and crunchy vegetables, or need a high-protein meal that doesn’t skimp on taste, this salad is sure to become one of your favorites. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love it:1. Bold and Spicy Flavor
The hallmark of this salad is its spicy kick. The grilled or blackened chicken is seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne, creating a smoky and fiery flavor profile. Paired with a zesty dressing—like a spicy chipotle ranch or a tangy lime vinaigrette—each bite delivers just the right amount of heat without being overwhelming. If you love food that excites your taste buds, this salad is for you.2. A Perfect Blend of Fresh Ingredients
The Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad isn’t just about the chicken—it’s a vibrant mix of textures and flavors. Crisp romaine lettuce or mixed greens provide a fresh and crunchy base. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado slices, black beans, roasted corn, and crunchy tortilla strips add layers of flavor and texture. The combination of ingredients ensures every forkful is satisfying and well-balanced.3. High in Protein and Nutrients
If you’re looking for a protein-packed meal that will keep you full and energized, this salad delivers. Grilled chicken is a lean protein source, while black beans provide additional protein and fiber. Avocado adds heart-healthy fats, and the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Unlike many salads that leave you hungry soon after eating, this one provides long-lasting energy without unnecessary carbs or unhealthy fats.4. Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about the Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is how easily customizable it is. You can adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add your favorite toppings. Want more heat? Add extra jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Prefer a dairy-free option? Skip the cheese and try a creamy avocado-based dressing instead. You can even swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, steak, or a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.5. A Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home
Many restaurants, including Chick-fil-A and Wendy’s, offer a version of this salad, but making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid excess calories, preservatives, and added sugars. Plus, homemade dressings can be fresher and healthier than store-bought options. Whether you meal-prep it for the week or whip it up for a quick lunch, this salad is both delicious and convenient.Tips & Variations
1. For a smoky flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the salad.2. Swap Greek yogurt for mayo in the dressing for a richer, creamier texture.
3. Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper.
4. Make it a meal prep option by storing the ingredients separately and assembling when ready to eat.
Final Touches
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- For extra spice, drizzle with hot sauce or sriracha.
- Serve with a side of grilled corn on the cob or cheesy quesadillas for a complete meal.