Southwest Chicken Salad
This Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold and flavorful dish packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, black beans, and crispy tortilla strips. It’s a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 medium chicken breasts about 1 lb, cooked and sliced
- 6 cups Romaine lettuce or mixed greens chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned, drained
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 medium bell pepper diced (any color)
- 1 medium avocado diced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup tortilla strips store-bought or homemade, for crunch
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken
- Cook the chicken breasts using your preferred method (grilled, pan-seared, or baked).
- Let them rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- 2️⃣ Chop & Prepare the Veggies
- Wash and chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and bell pepper.
- Dice the avocado and set aside.
- 3️⃣ Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, layer lettuce, corn, black beans, tomatoes, bell pepper, and avocado.
- Top with sliced chicken and shredded cheese.
- 4️⃣ Add the Crunch & Serve
- Sprinkle with crispy tortilla strips just before serving.
- Toss gently and serve with your favorite dressing (see notes for options).
Notes
For extra flavor: Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder before cooking.
Dressing options: Try a creamy chipotle dressing, lime vinaigrette, or ranch.
Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or extra beans.
Dressing options: Try a creamy chipotle dressing, lime vinaigrette, or ranch.
Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or extra beans.