Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe – Easy, Flavorful & Protein-Packed
This high protein Southwest chicken salad is packed with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and crunchy vegetables tossed in a zesty lime dressing for a bold, filling, and nutritious meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1½ lbs chicken breast
2 tbsp olive oil (plus 2 tbsp for dressing)
Juice of 2 limes
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (grilled, canned, or frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, sliced thin
1 avocado, diced
¼ cup chopped cilantro
Optional Dressing Add-In:
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in oil, lime, and spices. Grill 5–6 mins per side. Rest and slice.
- In a large bowl, combine lettuce, beans, corn, tomatoes, pepper, onion, and avocado.
- Whisk dressing ingredients together.
- Top salad with chicken and cilantro. Drizzle dressing and toss gently.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For meal prep, store ingredients separately. Add avocado and dressing just before serving. Use tofu for a vegan version.