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Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

  • Author: Ava Garrison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 2-4 servings

Description

A vibrant, flavor-packed salad featuring grilled chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and crispy tortilla chips, all tossed over fresh greens with your favorite Southwest-style dressing. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.


Ingredients

  • 2 grilled chicken breasts (marinated and cooked)
  • 5 cups romaine or leaf lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup tortilla chips, lightly crushed
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • ½ cup Southwest-style dressing (like chipotle ranch or lime vinaigrette)
  • Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Grill or sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  3. Prepare salad ingredients: chop lettuce, halve tomatoes, drain beans and corn.
  4. In a large bowl or on plates, layer lettuce, tomatoes, beans, and corn.
  5. Top with sliced chicken, tortilla chips, and cilantro if using.
  6. Drizzle with dressing just before serving, or serve dressing on the side.
  7. Serve with lime wedges if desired.