Southwest Chicken Chopped Salad with Creamy Chipotle Dressing
Looking for a flavorful, satisfying, and healthy meal? Southwest Chicken Chopped Salad with Creamy Chipotle Dressing is packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a smoky, creamy dressing that brings everything together. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep—and ready in no time!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Salad Base
3 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup cabbage, shredded
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup corn (fresh or canned)
½ cup black beans, rinsed
½ avocado, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
Creamy Chipotle Dressing
½ cup Greek yogurt
1–2 teaspoons chipotle in adobo (finely chopped or sauce)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
Optional Toppings
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Tortilla strips or crushed chips
Fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook in a pan over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Salad
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, cabbage, tomatoes, corn, black beans, avocado, and onion.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, chipotle, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
4. Assemble the Salad
Add chopped chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with creamy chipotle dressing.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Toss lightly and add optional toppings like cheese, tortilla strips, and cilantro.
Health Benefits
High in Protein: Chicken supports muscle growth and keeps you full.
Rich in Fiber: Beans and veggies improve digestion.
Healthy Fats: Avocado supports heart health.
Balanced Meal: Combines protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is this salad spicy?
A: It has a mild smoky heat. Adjust chipotle amount to control spice level.
Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use plant-based yogurt for the dressing.
Q3: Can I meal prep this salad?
A: Yes, store dressing separately and combine before serving.
Calories: 380 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 7 g
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g