The Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of mixed salad greens with the bold, zesty flavors of Southwestern cuisine. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a healthy meal. With tender chicken tenders, a medley of colorful bell peppers, creamy avocado, and a hint of sweetness from dried apricots, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this delightful salad, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 ears of corn, husked and silk removed
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 8 chicken tenders
- BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 3 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/2 red bell pepper, 1/2 green bell pepper, and 1/2 orange bell pepper, all diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 10 dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (optional)
- Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
- Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Lightly brush the corn on the cob with a bit of oil and season with a pinch of kosher salt.
- Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool before cutting the kernels off the cob.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Tenders
- In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, lime juice, and a pinch of kosher salt.
- Brush the chicken tenders with the BBQ mixture.
- Grill the chicken tenders over medium-high heat until cooked through and slightly charred, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, diced red, green, and orange bell peppers, diced avocado, chopped dried apricots, and cooked chickpeas (if using).
- Add the grilled corn kernels to the salad mixture.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ground cumin, lime juice, and a pinch of kosher salt until well combined.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- Arrange the salad mixture on a large serving platter or individual plates.
- Top with the sliced grilled chicken tenders.
- Season with fresh cracked black pepper to taste.
Conclusion
The Southwest Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is a fantastic option that is both healthy and satisfying. The combination of grilled chicken, sweet and smoky corn, creamy avocado, and colorful bell peppers creates a harmonious and delicious meal. Enjoy this Southwest Chicken Salad as a nutritious and flavorful addition to your recipe repertoire, and savor the taste of the Southwest in every bite.