Southwest Chicken Salad from Gold Star Chili features tender grilled chicken, fresh mixed greens, black beans, corn, ripe tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese, all tossed in a zesty southwest dressing and topped with crunchy tortilla strips for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Mixing bowls
- Can opener
- Cheese grater
- Tongs
- Serving salad bowls or plates
- Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup canned black beans
- 1 cup canned corn
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup southwest dressing
- 1 cup tortilla strips
Fresh mixed greens should be thoroughly washed and dried using a salad spinner to ensure crispness in the Southwest Chicken Salad. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even grilling and consistent flavor absorption from the olive oil and southwest spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Draining canned black beans and corn helps prevent the salad from becoming watery, preserving its vibrant texture. Shredded cheddar cheese brings a rich, creamy element that pairs well with the zesty southwest dressing and crunchy tortilla strips. Your Southwest Chicken Salad from Gold Star Chili copycat will taste authentically bold and fresh when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the spice mixture.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked; set aside to rest.
- Rinse and spin mixed greens dry, if needed.
- Open, drain, and rinse canned black beans and corn.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in halves.
- Shred cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
- Add southwest dressing and toss to coat ingredients evenly.
- Top salad with sliced grilled chicken.
- Sprinkle tortilla strips over the salad.
- Serve immediately in salad bowls or plates.
Substitution
Southwest Chicken Salad from Gold Star Chili copycat menu combines grilled, spiced chicken with fresh greens, black beans, corn, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and a tangy southwest dressing. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, cooking the chicken in a skillet or baking it in the oven works well without sacrificing flavor. Canned black beans and corn can be substituted with fresh or frozen if preferred, just be sure to drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly before use. If tortilla strips aren't available, crushed tortilla chips or baked pita chips can add a similar crunch. Your salad will still be delicious if you swap cheddar cheese with a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack cheese according to your taste.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high to achieve a perfect sear on the chicken breasts without drying them out. Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF for safe consumption. Rinsing canned black beans and corn removes excess sodium and improves flavor, which balances your salad's seasoning. When tossing the salad with southwest dressing, gently mix to prevent wilting the fresh mixed greens while ensuring even coating for optimal taste.
Nutritions
Southwest Chicken Salad from Gold Star Chili offers a balanced combination of lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Your meal includes boneless, skinless chicken breasts rich in high-quality protein, complemented by black beans and corn, both excellent sources of dietary fiber and plant-based nutrients. Fresh mixed greens and ripe tomatoes provide antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals important for immune health. The addition of shredded cheddar cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, while the zesty southwest dressing and crunchy tortilla strips add flavor and texture without overwhelming the salad's nutritional profile.
Storage
Store leftover Southwest Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Keep the tortilla strips separate and add them just before serving to retain their crunchiness. Your grilled chicken and mixed greens will stay flavorful for up to 2 days when properly chilled.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken with seasoned grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option that complements the southwest flavors. Swap canned black beans and corn for fresh kernels and cooked black-eyed peas to enhance texture and freshness. Use a homemade southwest dressing made with Greek yogurt, lime juice, chipotle peppers, and cilantro to control spice and creaminess levels. For extra crunch, try adding roasted pepitas or chopped jicama instead of tortilla strips.
Allergies
Southwest Chicken Salad contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and potential gluten in tortilla strips depending on the brand used. The southwest dressing may also contain soy or egg, so checking ingredient labels is essential for those with allergies. You should always verify each component to ensure it is safe for your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
Southwest Chicken Salad from Gold Star Chili features a flavorful blend of grilled chicken, fresh greens, black beans, corn, and a zesty southwestern dressing that delivers a satisfying, nutritious meal. The combination of protein-rich chicken and colorful vegetables offers a balanced dish that appeals to health-conscious individuals looking for a tasty option. The unique mix of spices and textures makes this salad a standout choice, encouraging you to recreate the recipe at home for a restaurant-quality experience. Making the copycat version allows you to control ingredients, customize flavors, and enjoy a popular menu item anytime.