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Fresh Southwest Chicken Salad

Fresh Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Easy Zesty Spicy Dressing for Perfect Lunch
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Fresh Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. The salad features smoky grilled chicken marinated in spices, paired with crisp mixed greens and colorful vegetables. Drizzled with a zesty spicy dressing made from Greek yogurt and chipotle, each bite bursts with flavor while remaining healthy and satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level and add your favorite ingredients. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a stand-alone meal or alongside crispy tortilla chips for added crunch.

Ingredients

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  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinade)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, baby spinach, or spring mix)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1–2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: Combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub over chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Let rest before slicing.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, and avocado.
  4. Prepare the dressing: Whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey/agave syrup, chipotle chili powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  5. Serve: Top salad with sliced chicken and drizzle with the dressing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://myrecipestories.com/fresh-southwest-chicken-salad-recipe-easy-zesty-spicy-dressing-for-perfect-lunch/