Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Spicy Southwest Salad, a delightful dish that brings together fresh vegetables, marinated grilled chicken, and a zesty homemade ranch dressing. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or any gathering. With its customizable ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for those seeking a hearty yet healthy meal option. Enjoy the explosion of flavors while relishing every bite of this easy-to-make salad.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 lime (juiced and zested)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2–3 tbsp hot sauce of choice
- 1 head green leaf lettuce (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (diced)
- 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 2 avocados (sliced)
- 1 cup corn
- ½ red onion (sliced)
- ½ cup tortilla strips
- Cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl or zip lock bag, mix lime juice, zest, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, honey, and avocado oil. Add chicken breasts and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until done. Remove from heat and let cool before slicing.
- Make the dressing: Combine ranch dressing and hot sauce in a small bowl; stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer chopped lettuce and top with sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, black beans, bell pepper slices, avocado slices, corn, red onion slices, and tortilla strips. Drizzle with spicy ranch dressing before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg