Description
A bold and hearty salad packed with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, this vibrant bowl delivers big flavor and satisfying freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
To whip up your own Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (feel free to substitute with turkey or a plant-based protein like tempeh)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and kale)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (great alternative: chickpeas)
- 1 cup corn kernels (you can use frozen or canned; just make sure to drain!)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lime juice for extra zest)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
① Prepare the Chicken
If using fresh chicken, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then grill, bake, or pan-sear until fully cooked. For an even quicker meal, you can use rotisserie chicken from the grocery store. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
② Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. This dressing infuses bold flavors that perfectly complement the salad.
③ Combine the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Toss gently to incorporate all the veggies, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
④ Add the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the salad mixture, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the colorful veggies.
⑤ Dress It Up
Drizzle the dressing over your salad bowl and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
⑥ Serve
Top your Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl with sliced avocado and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to enhance the flavors, making it even more appetizing!
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g