Southwest chicken salad always takes me back to a summer road trip where I stopped at a small café that served the most vibrant salad topped with smoky grilled chicken and a zesty dressing. It was so refreshing and full of bold flavors that I knew I had to recreate it at home.

Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes because it’s easy, colorful, and packed with protein and veggies. With juicy chicken, crisp greens, black beans, corn, and a drizzle of southwest-style dressing, this salad is as satisfying as it is healthy.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe, and you can add or swap ingredients to make it your own!

Chicken breast – Grilled with southwest spices for smoky flavor.
Romaine lettuce – The crisp, fresh base for the salad.
Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, adding brightness.
Black beans – Provide protein and a hearty texture.
Corn – Adds natural sweetness and crunch.
Red onion – Gives a zesty, sharp bite.
Cheddar cheese – Shredded on top for creaminess.
Cotija cheese – Adds a salty, crumbly finish.
Southwest dressing – Creamy and tangy with a hint of spice.

Tools You’ll Need

Grill pan – To cook the chicken with charred grill marks.
Knife – For slicing chicken and chopping vegetables.
Cutting board – Keeps prep easy and organized.
Mixing bowl – To toss the greens and toppings together.
Tongs – For flipping chicken and assembling the salad.

Instructions

Step 1:

I season the chicken with southwest spices and grill it until cooked through with a nice char.

Step 2:

While the chicken rests, I chop the lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the red onion.

Step 3:

I drain and rinse the black beans and corn, making them ready to add to the salad.

Step 4:

I arrange the lettuce in a large bowl, topping it with beans, corn, tomatoes, and onion.

Step 5:

I slice the grilled chicken into strips and place it on top of the salad.

Step 6:

I finish with shredded cheddar, crumbled cotija, and a drizzle of southwest dressing.

Tips

I love adding avocado slices for extra creaminess or tortilla strips for crunch. You can also swap the dressing for chipotle ranch if you want more spice.

Ways to Serve

This southwest chicken salad is perfect as a light dinner, hearty lunch, or even as a party dish when served in a large bowl for sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought southwest dressing?

Yes, it works perfectly, but homemade adds a fresher taste.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Prepare the ingredients ahead but assemble just before serving to keep it fresh.

What other proteins can I use?

Grilled shrimp, steak, or even tofu work well with southwest flavors.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this southwest chicken salad and enjoy its bold, fresh flavors! It’s a delicious and healthy dish that’s always a hit at my table.

Happy Cooking!