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Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad

This Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold and flavorful salad packed with juicy chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, crisp lettuce, and creamy spicy dressing. Perfect for easy lunch ideas, meal prep, or healthy dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken
  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Salad
  • 1 large romaine lettuce head chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 avocado diced
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • ¼ cup red onion sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Spicy Southwest Dressing
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tsp taco seasoning
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • Optional Toppings
  • Tortilla strips
  • Jalapeños
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Season chicken with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  3. Let chicken rest, then slice.
  4. In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, lime juice, hot sauce, taco seasoning, honey, and garlic to make dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, corn, black beans, onion, and cheese.
  6. Top salad with sliced chicken.
  7. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently.
  8. Garnish with tortilla strips, jalapeños, or cilantro if desired.
  9. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Store dressing separately for meal prep freshness.
  • Rotisserie chicken can be used as a shortcut.
  • Add extra hot sauce for more heat.
  • Great for southwest chicken salad recipe meal prep lunches.
  • Best enjoyed fresh within 2 days.