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A vibrant Southwest chicken salad featuring colorful chopped vegetables, grilled chicken slices sprinkled with spices, served in a white bowl with a creamy dressing drizzled on top, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, showcasing textures from crisp lettuce and tender chicken, styled on a rustic wooden table.

Easy Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad for Quick Lunch or Dinner

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A quick and flavorful Southwest chicken salad with spiced grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub onto chicken breasts.
  3. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Rest and slice.
  4. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, corn, beans, red onion, and cilantro.
  5. Top with sliced grilled chicken and avocado.
  6. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate chicken in spices and lime juice for 30 minutes before grilling.
  • Use fresh ingredients for best taste and texture.
  • Great with a side of tortilla chips or a light vinaigrette.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Method: Grilling, assembling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg