Description
This vibrant and satisfying salad is packed with smoky chicken, creamy avocado, and a zesty homemade dressing. It’s the perfect quick and flavorful meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 tbsp crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then dice or slice.
- 2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large serving bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, rinsed black beans, corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion.
- 3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 4. Assemble the Salad: Add the diced avocado and chopped cilantro (if using) to the vegetable mixture. Top with the cooked chicken and crumbled feta or cotija cheese (if using).
- 5. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the homemade Southwest dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins