Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad from Wendy's features juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado slices, ripe grape tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and crisp lettuce, all tossed in a zesty southwestern dressing for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad bowl
- Salad tongs
- Cheese grater
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 large avocado
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- For the Southwestern dressing:
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon salsa
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Ensure your chicken breasts are boneless and skinless for even grilling and optimal tenderness in your Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad. Using ripe, creamy avocado slices will provide the perfect buttery texture that complements the zesty southwestern dressing. Fresh grape tomatoes add a burst of juiciness while shredded cheddar cheese contributes a rich, sharp flavor contrast. Measuring out the chili powder and smoked paprika precisely will help balance the smoky and spicy notes characteristic of this dish. You can recreate the bold, fresh flavors of Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad from Wendy's at home by following this copycat menu carefully.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Let grilled chicken rest, then slice into strips.
- Halve grape tomatoes and slice avocado.
- In a salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, grape tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Top salad with sliced avocado and grilled chicken strips.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing, salsa, lime juice, and chili powder for the southwestern dressing.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently with salad tongs before serving.
Substitution
Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad from Wendy's copycat menu brings all the bold flavors of the original with grilled chicken seasoned in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. If fresh avocado is unavailable, substitute with guacamole or a creamy avocado-based spread to maintain the richness. Grape tomatoes can be swapped with cherry tomatoes or diced red bell peppers for a similar burst of sweetness and color. For a dairy-free option, replace shredded cheddar cheese with sliced avocado or omit it entirely to keep the salad lighter. Your southwestern dressing can be customized by using Greek yogurt instead of ranch for a tangier and healthier twist.
Tips
Ensure the grill or grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high heat before cooking the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking. Let your grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to retain its juices and enhance flavor when sliced. When preparing the avocado, handle it gently to maintain its creamy texture and avoid browning by slicing just before assembling the salad. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine your southwestern dressing ingredients for an even flavor distribution when tossed with your salad.
Nutritions
Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad from Wendy's provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. The grilled chicken breasts deliver lean protein crucial for muscle repair and immune support. Creamy avocado supplies heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and potassium, aiding in cardiovascular health. Your salad also offers antioxidants from grape tomatoes and calcium from shredded cheddar cheese, supporting overall wellness and bone strength.
Storage
Store leftover Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the avocado from browning quickly. Keep the dressing separate in a small sealed jar or container to preserve its zesty flavor and prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Refrigerate your salad within two hours of preparation and consume it within 1-2 days for optimal taste and safety.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the shredded cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese to add a spicier kick to your Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad. Using fire-roasted corn instead of grape tomatoes provides a smoky sweetness that complements the southwestern flavors. For a healthier dressing option, substitute the ranch with a mixture of Greek yogurt and lime juice while keeping the salsa and chili powder for the signature zest. Grilling the chicken with a hint of chipotle powder will deepen the smoky taste and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Allergies
The Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad contains several common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing, as well as potential latex-fruit syndrome linked to avocado. You should be cautious if you have sensitivities to spices like chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika, which may cause reactions in some individuals. Cross-contamination risks from the chicken or other ingredients are also possible depending on preparation practices.
Why this recipe?
Southwest Avocado Chicken Salad from Wendy's is favored for its fresh ingredients, including creamy avocado, tender grilled chicken, and crisp vegetables, delivering a balanced and nutritious meal. The bold southwestern flavors combined with a zesty dressing create a satisfying taste experience that appeals to health-conscious and flavor-seeking diners alike. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your preference while enjoying a restaurant-quality salad at a lower cost. Replicating this dish at home ensures you can enjoy its rich taste and wholesome goodness any time you desire.