Spicy Southwest Salad Recipe

Spicy Southwest Salad Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

I recently decided to recreate the beloved Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad from Chick-fil-A at home, and let me tell you—it was a game-changer! Packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a delightful crunch, this salad has quickly become a staple in my kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts. You can also enjoy similar fresh flavors in a Smoked Salmon Salad for a different protein twist. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

This salad is a delightful medley of seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, zesty dressing. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts – Opt for boneless, skinless breasts for ease of preparation.
• ⅓ cup dill pickle juice – Marinates the chicken, infusing it with a tangy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sour cream – Adds creaminess and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Provides a spicy kick.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Imparts a smoky depth.
• ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder – Gives a mild heat and earthy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle heat.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Offers a savory undertone.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken.

For the Dressing:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base.
• ½ cup hot jalapeño salsa – Brings heat and flavor; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• ⅓ cup sour cream – Balances the heat with its coolness.
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves – Adds freshness and a burst of color.
• 2 tablespoons of lime juice – Provides acidity and brightness.
• Pinch of salt and black pepper – Season to taste.
• ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder – Enhances the smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Deepens the savory notes.

For the Salad:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce – Chopped; serves as the crisp base.
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes – Halved; adds juiciness and sweetness.
• 1 cup black beans – Rinsed and drained; offers protein and texture.
• 1 cup corn kernels – Rinsed and drained; brings sweetness and crunch.
• ⅓ cup red onion – Thinly sliced; provides a sharp contrast.
• 1 avocado – Diced; contributes creaminess.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds richness.
• ½ cup tortilla strips – For crunch.
• ¼ cup chili lime pepitas – Optional; offers an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Variations

Looking to customize your salad? Here are some alternative options:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise alternatives.
• Sugar-Free: Ensure the salsa and other condiments are free from added sugars.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding sliced jalapeños for extra heat, or roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet contrast. You can also explore other easy-to-make lunch options from our Lunch Recipes collection.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Skillet or Grill Pan: For cooking the seasoned chicken breasts.
• Mixing Bowls: To marinate the chicken and prepare the dressing.
• Whisk: For blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Chef’s Knife: To chop and slice vegetables and chicken.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for chopping.
• Salad Bowl: To toss and serve the salad.

How to Make Spicy Southwest Salad?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of dill pickle juice, sour cream, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, ancho chili powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, hot jalapeño salsa, sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, lime juice, salt, black pepper, ancho chili powder, and garlic powder. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, layer the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, sliced red onion, diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla strips, and chili lime pepitas.

Top with the sliced spicy chicken. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly. For a delicious variation, you can also enjoy similar textures and flavors in a BLT Chicken Salad recipe.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour.
• Grill the Chicken: Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the spices.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeño salsa to suit your spice preference.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop vegetables in advance to save time.

How to Serve Spicy Southwest Salad?

Serve this salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a wedge of lime on the side. For a complete meal, pair it with warm cornbread or a side of tortilla chips. This salad also makes a great filling for wraps or tacos.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes, here’s a general estimate per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 550-600 kcal
• Protein: Around 35-40 grams
• Carbohydrates: About 30-35 grams
• Fat: Approximately 30 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken and dressing can be kept for up to 3 days. Assembled salads with dressing should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad due to the texture changes in fresh vegetables and dressing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Southwest Salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are some reasons why it’s a must-try:

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients delivers a punch of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can enjoy this delicious salad in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and enjoy a homemade version of a fast-food favorite!

Ash Tyrrell

Spicy Southwest Salad Recipe

I recently decided to recreate the beloved Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad from Chick-fil-A at home, and let me tell you—it was a game-changer! Packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a delightful crunch, this salad has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you're looking for a satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 chicken breasts – Opt for boneless skinless breasts for ease of preparation.
• ⅓ cup dill pickle juice – Marinates the chicken infusing it with a tangy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sour cream – Adds creaminess and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Provides a spicy kick.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Imparts a smoky depth.
• ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder – Gives a mild heat and earthy flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle heat.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Offers a savory undertone.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken.
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base.
• ½ cup hot jalapeño salsa – Brings heat and flavor; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
• ⅓ cup sour cream – Balances the heat with its coolness.
• ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves – Adds freshness and a burst of color.
• 2 tablespoons of lime juice – Provides acidity and brightness.
• Pinch of salt and black pepper – Season to taste.
• ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder – Enhances the smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Deepens the savory notes.
• 4 cups romaine lettuce – Chopped; serves as the crisp base.
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes – Halved; adds juiciness and sweetness.
• 1 cup black beans – Rinsed and drained; offers protein and texture.
• 1 cup corn kernels – Rinsed and drained; brings sweetness and crunch.
• ⅓ cup red onion – Thinly sliced; provides a sharp contrast.
• 1 avocado – Diced; contributes creaminess.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds richness.
• ½ cup tortilla strips – For crunch.
• ¼ cup chili lime pepitas – Optional; offers an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Method

 

1. Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of dill pickle juice, sour cream, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, ancho chili powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors. Cook the marinated chicken in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly.
2. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, hot jalapeño salsa, sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, lime juice, salt, black pepper, ancho chili powder, and garlic powder. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well-blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. In a large salad bowl, layer the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn kernels, sliced red onion, diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla strips, and chili lime pepitas. Top with the sliced spicy chicken. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Notes

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour.
• Grill the Chicken: Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the spices.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeño salsa to suit your spice preference.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop vegetables in advance to save time.