Southwest Chipotle Chicken Salad
Experience a burst of flavor with the Southwest Chipotle Chicken Salad! This vibrant dish combines tender grilled chicken, smoky chipotle seasoning, and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of colors and textures that brings summer picnics to your table.
- Author: Jennifer
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chipotle powder
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 6 cups mixed greens (spinach or romaine)
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and chipotle powder; grill for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- While chicken cools, chop bell peppers and greens. Toss with corn and black beans in a large bowl.
- Shred the cooled chicken using two forks and add to the veggie mixture.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with sliced avocado just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap black beans for kidney beans or use grilled corn instead of canned for added freshness. For extra spice, incorporate fresh jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce on top. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; keep dressing separate until serving.