Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl

This Southwest chicken salad bowl is a fiesta in a bowl. Spiced grilled chicken, sweet corn, black beans, avocado, and crunchy tortilla strips sit on a bed of crisp romaine, all drizzled with a creamy lime dressing. It is fresh, filling, and full of color.

It is the kind of recipe you will come back to again and again — simple enough for a weeknight, and good enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky chicken with sweet corn and creamy avocado
• A complete meal in one bowl
• Great for meal prep

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup tortilla strips
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, for the dressing

How to Make It

1. Rub the chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill or pan-fry the chicken over medium-high heat for 6 to 7 minutes per side, until it reaches 165°F. Rest it for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly.
3. Whisk the sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder in a small bowl to make the dressing.

4. Divide the romaine among four bowls. Top with black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cheddar.
5. Add the sliced chicken and tortilla strips to each bowl.
6. Drizzle with the lime dressing and serve right away.

Pro Tips

• Let the chicken rest before slicing. Cutting it too soon lets the juices run out.
• Add the avocado and tortilla strips at the end so they stay fresh and crunchy.
• For meal prep, keep the dressing separate and add it just before eating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips on the side, and a glass of iced tea or limeade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Season the dressing a little more generously.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes. Skip the chicken and add an extra can of black beans, or use roasted sweet potatoes.

How long does it keep?

The salad keeps for 2 days in the fridge without the dressing. Add the dressing just before serving.