Introduction
Southwest Chicken Salad with Avocado Ranch is a vibrant, protein packed dish loaded with fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, and a creamy homemade avocado ranch dressing. This salad is perfect for a hearty lunch or light dinner, combining bold Southwestern flavors with a nutritious balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
Why You’ll Love This:
- Protein Packed & Nutritious: A healthy meal full of lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Bold & Zesty Flavors: Spiced chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing make every bite satisfying.
- Easy to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Great for Meal Prep: Store the components separately and assemble fresh when needed.
Equipment Needed:
Grill pan or skillet, Mixing bowls, Knife & chopping board, Blender or food processor
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup red onion (sliced)
- 1/2 avocado (sliced)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup tortilla strips (optional)
For the Avocado Ranch Dressing:
- 1/2 avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin if needed)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400-450 kcal,
Protein: 35-40 grams,
Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams,
Fat: 15-18 grams,
Fiber: 8-10 grams
Step by Step Instructions:
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes,
Cooking Time: 20 minutes,
Total Time: 30 minutes
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Coat the chicken and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Dressing: Blend all avocado ranch ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, red onion, and sliced avocado. Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Drizzle & Serve: Pour avocado ranch dressing over the salad, garnish with cheddar cheese and tortilla strips if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Southwest Chicken Salad:
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or cayenne.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with warm cornbread, a side of quinoa, or a light soup for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q 1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the salad and dressing separately and mix before serving.
Q 2. Can I make this dairy free?
Absolutely! Use dairy free yogurt for the dressing and skip the cheese.
Q 3. What can I use instead of chicken?
Grilled shrimp, tofu, or blackened salmon are great alternatives.
Conclusion:
Southwest Chicken Salad with Avocado Ranch is a flavorful, protein rich meal that’s easy to make and full of nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a fresh dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!