Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A vibrant plate of Easy Southwest Salad with fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado slices, and a tangy dressing.

Easy Southwest Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Discover a delicious and refreshing Easy Southwest Salad Recipe that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. This vibrant chicken salad combines seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty dressing for a flavorful meal you’ll love. Easy to prepare and full of bold southwestern flavors, this salad is a healthy and satisfying choice for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Your favorite southwestern dressing

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned. Rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
  3. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, corn, black beans, and diced red bell pepper.
  4. Top the salad with sliced chicken, avocado slices, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
  5. Drizzle with your preferred southwestern dressing.
  6. Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately or chilled.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level with more chili powder or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • For a creamier texture, add Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
  • Sprinkle crispy tortilla strips or toasted nuts for added crunch.
  • Serve with warm tortillas or on a bed of quinoa for more filling options.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Southwestern
  • Diet: Healthy,Low-Carb

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg