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Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad

This Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold and flavorful dish made with juicy seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, zesty dressing. Inspired by classic southwestern chicken salad and a vibrant mexican chicken salad recipe, it’s perfect for quick meals and healthy lunch ideas. If you’re looking for easy lunch ideas or satisfying lunch ideas healthy, this salad delivers the perfect balance of spice, freshness, and nutrition.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Salad:
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup corn fresh, grilled, or canned
  • 1/2 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 avocado sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • For the Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub over chicken.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan and cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, chili powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado, red onion, and cheese.
  5. Add sliced chicken on top.
  6. Drizzle dressing over the salad or serve on the side.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
  • Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
  • Add tortilla strips or jalapeños for extra crunch and heat.
  • Substitute dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free option.
  • Store components separately for up to 2–3 days.