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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipes That Will Spice Up Your Lunch Today

Southwest Chicken Salad with fresh chicken, avocado, beans, and vibrant vegetables

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A vibrant and zesty Southwest Chicken Salad loaded with juicy chicken, creamy avocado, black beans, corn, and a lime-infused dressing perfect for a 20-minute weeknight meal or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 1 romaine lettuce heart, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium avocado, diced
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned)
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • For the Southwest dressing:
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Assemble the base: In a large bowl, toss together chopped romaine, shredded chicken, black beans, and corn.
  3. Add fresh elements: Fold in cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, red onion, and jalapeño (if using) gently to avoid mashing.
  4. Finish and serve: Drizzle dressing over the salad, add chopped cilantro, and toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Notes

Substitute chicken with black beans or roasted sweet potatoes for a vegetarian version. Add cheese or tortilla chips for a fun twist. Dressing can be made ahead and stored for up to 1 week.

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