Save Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad that brings together the best flavors of Southwestern cuisine. Each colorful bowl offers a perfect balance of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and bold spices that will satisfy your hunger while nourishing your body. The combination of seasoned grilled chicken, hearty black beans, and crisp vegetables creates a nutritious meal that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
Save This Southwest Chicken Salad has become a staple in my meal rotation, especially during busy weeks when I need something nutritious that doesn't take hours to prepare. The combination of tender grilled chicken and protein-rich black beans makes this salad substantial enough to serve as a complete meal, while the fresh vegetables and bright dressing keep it feeling light and refreshing.
- For the Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500 g), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Salad: 1 large romaine lettuce heart (chopped), 1 cup (170 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup (170 g) canned black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup (150 g) canned sweet corn (drained), 1/2 red bell pepper (diced), 1/2 avocado (diced), 1/4 cup (30 g) red onion (thinly sliced), 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- For the Dressing: 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (0% or 2% fat), 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 tsp honey or agave syrup, 1/4 tsp ground cumin, Salt and black pepper to taste
- Step 1: Prepare the chicken
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 2: Grill the chicken
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature 74°C/165°F). Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Step 3: Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 4: Assemble the salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, bell pepper, avocado, red onion, cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
- Step 5: Finish and serve
- Add sliced chicken on top. Drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately.
For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it in the spice mixture for up to 4 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat. If you're short on time, even 15 minutes of marinating will make a difference. The chicken can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days, making this salad perfect for meal prep.
This versatile salad can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled halloumi or seasoned tofu. Make it dairy-free by omitting the cheese and substituting coconut yogurt in the dressing. For a keto-friendly option, reduce the corn and beans while increasing the avocado. You can also add jalapeños for extra heat or crispy tortilla strips for added texture.
Serve this vibrant Southwest Chicken Salad in wide, shallow bowls to showcase all the colorful ingredients. For a complete meal, pair it with a small portion of cilantro lime rice or warm tortillas on the side. This salad makes an impressive lunch for guests or a refreshing dinner on warm evenings. As noted in the recipe, it pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, but a light Mexican beer with a lime wedge would also complement the flavors beautifully.
Save This Southwest Chicken Salad isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together to create something truly special. With its impressive protein content and robust flavors, it proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be bland or boring. Whether you're cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to a nutritious meal, this colorful creation delivers satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors that make this salad a standout dish any day of the week.
Kitchen Guide
- → How should the chicken be seasoned for this dish?
The chicken is rubbed with olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper before grilling to infuse a smoky, spicy flavor.
- → Can the dressing be made dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative to accommodate lactose intolerance while maintaining creaminess.
- → What is the best way to grill the chicken?
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until reaching an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
- → Are there any suggested ingredient swaps?
You can replace chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for variety, and add tortilla strips or pepitas for extra crunch.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, black beans and corn are naturally gluten-free, and no gluten-containing ingredients are included, but always check labels to confirm.