Description
Are you looking for a fresh and fiery salad that’s easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors? This Spicy Southwest Salad is what your culinary dreams are made of! Complete with a spicy ranch dressing, marinated chicken, and creamy avocado, this salad will soon become your new go-to at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick, healthy meal or a dish to impress your guests, this salad is a perfect choice.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 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
- 2 chicken breasts
Spicy Ranch Dressing
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2–3 tbsp hot sauce of choice (we recommend Chipotle Cholula)
Salad Ingredients
- 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 (fresh or canned)
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup tortilla strips
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix the lime juice, zest, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, honey, and avocado oil. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated in the marinade. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan over medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Ranch Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing with your chosen hot sauce. Stir until well combined. Set aside while you prepare the salad.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, layer the lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, bell pepper, avocado, corn, and red onion. Add the grilled chicken slices on top. Sprinkle with tortilla strips, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Drizzle the spicy ranch dressing over the salad before serving.
For a similar grilled chicken recipe with a tropical twist, you might enjoy this Hawaiian Grilled Chicken.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lime juice and crisp lettuce will elevate the flavors of the salad.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less hot sauce to the ranch dressing.
- Grill the Chicken Perfectly: Don’t flip the chicken too often to ensure those beautiful grill marks and a juicy texture.