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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe
Chef Ava

Southwest Chicken Salad

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold and flavorful dish featuring crisp romaine lettuce, protein-packed black beans, and zesty lime-cumin dressing. It’s fresh, hearty, and perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Salad
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
  • 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 grilled chicken breast sliced (or shredded)
  • ½ cup corn optional, for extra sweetness
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
  • ¼ cup red onion diced (optional)
For the Dressing:
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

Prepare the Dressing:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad:
  1. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, black beans, grilled chicken, corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using).
Dress & Toss:
  1. Drizzle the lime-cumin dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
Serve & Enjoy:
  1. Garnish with extra lime wedges or fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh flavor.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, add tortilla strips or toasted pumpkin seeds.
  • For a creamy version, mix in avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
  • Make ahead: Store ingredients separately and toss together before serving.