Southwest Chicken Salad Bowls

In recent years, salad bowls have surged in popularity as a versatile and satisfying meal option that caters to a variety of dietary preferences. These colorful, nutrient-packed creations are not only visually appealing but also provide a balanced combination of flavors and textures that can make healthy eating exciting. One standout option that perfectly embodies this trend is the Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl. This dish is a delightful fusion of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing that brings the vibrant tastes of Southwest cuisine right to your table.

Looking for a deliciously nutritious meal? Try our Southwest Chicken Salad Bowls! Bursting with flavor, this dish features grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing that captures the essence of Southwest cuisine. It's a perfect blend of textures and tastes, making healthy eating exciting and satisfying. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins, this salad is versatile enough for various dietary preferences. Ideal for meal prep or sharing with friends, dig in and enjoy a delightful culinary experience!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, and baby spinach)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 avocado, diced

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, coating them evenly. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes (you can also marinate for a few hours for more flavor).

Cook the Chicken:

- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts.

- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

- Remove from heat and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

Assemble the Salad:

- In a large bowl, start with a base of mixed greens.

- Layer the salad with cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese.

- Scatter the sliced chicken on top. Finish with chopped cilantro for added freshness.

Prepare the Dressing:

- In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously until well combined.

Serve:

- Drizzle the dressing over the salad bowls just before serving. Toss gently to combine everything together or serve with the dressing on the side for individual servings.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings