Description
A bold and zesty Spicy Southwest Salad made with spicy grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, black beans, roasted corn, shredded cheese, and a creamy salsa dressing. Perfect for a satisfying, Tex-Mex-inspired lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, etc.)
1/2 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
1/2 cup roasted corn
1/2 cup grape tomatoes (halved)
1/2 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
1/3 cup shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese blend
1/4 cup tortilla strips
2 tablespoons chili lime pepitas (optional)
For the Creamy Salsa Dressing:
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup salsa
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, salsa, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, layer the greens, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Add sliced chicken, cheese, tortilla strips, and pepitas.
Dress and Serve: Drizzle with dressing just before serving and toss gently to coat.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with roasted sweet potatoes or grilled tofu.
Store components separately if prepping ahead to keep the salad fresh.
Adjust the spice level by altering chili powder or using a milder dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Keywords: Spicy Southwest Salad, Tex-Mex Salad, Grilled Chicken Salad, Healthy Salad Recipes, Meal Prep Salad, Southwest Dressing, Chick-fil-A Copycat, Summer Salads