Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Southwest Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate. (Can marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). If using an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or dice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
Make the Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the dressing is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water, one teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Salad
- In the large bowl where the chicken was marinated (or a clean large salad bowl), combine the chopped romaine lettuce, rinsed black beans, drained corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add the cooked and sliced Southwest chicken to the salad ingredients.
- Pour about half of the Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add more dressing if desired.
- Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado.
- Divide the salad among serving plates. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips, if using.
Notes
• **Meal Prep Tip:** Prepare the chicken and dressing ahead of time and store separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and avocado fresh.
• **Variations:** Add pickled jalapeños for extra heat, or crumbled cotija cheese for a salty kick. You can also grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
• **Storage:** Store any leftover dressed salad for up to 1 day; however, the lettuce may become soggy. Store undressed components separately for best freshness.
• **Variations:** Add pickled jalapeños for extra heat, or crumbled cotija cheese for a salty kick. You can also grill the chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky flavor.
• **Storage:** Store any leftover dressed salad for up to 1 day; however, the lettuce may become soggy. Store undressed components separately for best freshness.
