Name: Delicious Southwest Chopped Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: Dressing:; 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce; ½ cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1–2 tsp honey; 1 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tsp olive oil; Pinch of kosher salt; 4 tbsp water (to thin the dressing); Chicken Breasts:; 2–3 chicken breasts; 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade); Juice from ½ lime; 2 tsp olive oil; Salad:; 8 cups finely chopped romaine lettuce (about 1 large head); ½ cucumber, finely diced; 1 red bell pepper, finely diced; 1 jalapeno, finely diced (remove seeds for less spice); 1 handful cilantro, finely chopped (plus more for garnish); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, drained and rinsed; ½ cup roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds); ⅓ cup crumbled cotija cheese; 1 cup crumbled tortilla chips; 1 avocado, sliced; Lime wedges (for garnish)

Welcome to a recipe that’s sure to brighten your lunch or dinner table—the Southwest Chopped Salad. If you’re looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s bursting with flavors, this is the perfect choice. Packed with fresh ingredients and topped with a creamy chipotle lime dressing, this salad balances heat, sweetness, and crunch. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, it’s a surefire way to satisfy your cravings!

This salad not only delivers on flavor but also offers a wealth of health benefits. It’s loaded with colorful vegetables that are rich in vitamins and minerals, while the protein-packed chicken and healthy fats from the avocado make it a filling meal. Plus, the chipotle lime dressing adds a unique twist that elevates the dish to something truly special. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to salad for gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Chopped Salad

Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a combination of spiciness from the jalapeños, tanginess from the lime, and creaminess from the dressing.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side; it pairs well with a variety of meals.
Healthy Ingredients: Nutrient-dense ingredients make this salad a wholesome choice.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or family dinners—everyone will want a serving!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Southwest Chopped Salad starts with a well-prepared kitchen. Make sure you have a clean cutting board, a sharp knife for chopping veggies, and a large mixing bowl for combining the salad ingredients. A food processor will be essential for whipping up your creamy chipotle lime dressing quickly and efficiently.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re cooking chicken breasts, as this is the perfect temperature for achieving juicy and evenly cooked chicken. You’ll also want parchment paper for easy cleanup when baking. Gather all your ingredients before you start to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Dressing:
2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce
½ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tsp garlic powder
1–2 tsp honey
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tsp olive oil
Pinch of kosher salt
4 tbsp water (to thin the dressing)
Chicken Breasts:
2–3 chicken breasts
2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Juice from ½ lime
2 tsp olive oil
Salad:
8 cups finely chopped romaine lettuce (about 1 large head)
½ cucumber, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 jalapeno, finely diced (remove seeds for less spice)
1 handful cilantro, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, drained and rinsed
½ cup roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
⅓ cup crumbled cotija cheese
1 cup crumbled tortilla chips
1 avocado, sliced
Lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start your salad by making the flavorful dressing. In a food processor, toss in the chipotles in adobo sauce, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, honey, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. If you prefer a thinner consistency, gradually add water until it reaches your desired thickness. Once done, transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate it while you work on the other elements of the salad.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Next, focus on the chicken. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While this heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Rub the chicken breasts with the taco seasoning, lime juice, and olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Bake the seasoned chicken in the oven for about 15–20 minutes or until its internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few moments, then slice it into bite-sized pieces to add to your salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

It’s time to put everything together! In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, bell pepper, jalapeno, chopped cilantro, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, roasted pepitas, cotija cheese, and half of the crumbled tortilla chips. Drizzle ½ cup of the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss it all together until every ingredient is coated in that delicious dressing.

Step 4: Top with Chicken and Serve

To finish, place the sliced or diced baked chicken atop each salad serving. For a delightful crunch, sprinkle the remaining tortilla chips over the top. Add avocado slices and a sprinkle of extra cilantro for an added touch of freshness. Don’t forget to include lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty burst! Serve your salad immediately, with the remaining dressing on the side for those who like it extra saucy.

Variations

Protein: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add in diced avocados, shredded carrots, or radishes for more color and texture.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cumin or smoked paprika in your dressing for a unique flavor.

Cooking Notes

For best results, let the dressing chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your personal preferences—this salad is highly customizable!

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect for warm weather occasions like picnics or barbecues.
Pair it with grilled meats or fish to enhance your meal.

Tips

Chop all vegetables uniformly for a pleasing presentation and consistent texture.
Store leftover salad components separately to maintain freshness, especially if your salad is prepped in advance.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free, this salad can easily be gluten-free.

Conclusion

Your Southwest Chopped Salad is not just a meal—it’s a delightful experience for your taste buds! As you take a bite, let the flavors dance in your mouth, showcasing all the fresh ingredients that come together harmoniously. Remember, cooking is all about creativity, so feel free to customize this dish to suit your palate. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your results, and experiment with your own variations. Happy cooking!