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A vibrant bowl of The Ultimate Loaded Southwest Chicken Salad topped with grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, cheese, and cilantro, drizzled with a zesty dressing.

The Ultimate Loaded Southwest Chicken Salad

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Discover the vibrant and flavorful Ultimate Loaded Southwest Chicken Salad—an easy, protein-packed dish filled with fresh vegetables, seasoned grilled chicken, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this healthy southwest-inspired salad delivers bold flavors and colorful presentation in every bite.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup canned corn, drained
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • For the dressing:
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rub the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Rest, then slice into strips or cubes.
  2. Prepare fresh vegetables—drain corn, rinse black beans, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and slice avocado.
  3. Arrange mixed greens on a large platter or bowl. Top with vegetables, chicken, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Drizzle over the salad or serve on the side.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked or grilled chicken for best flavor.
  • Garnish with a squeeze of lime just before serving.
  • Add tortilla chips or strips for extra crunch.
  • Omit cheese or substitute with a plant-based option for dairy-free.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling, Assembling
  • Cuisine: Southwestern
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg