Fresh Southwest Chicken Salad Bowls that are light but satisfying, packed with bold seasoning, crisp veggies, and citrusy flavor—perfect for a New Year reset.
Southwest Chicken Salad Bowls (Fresh, Flavor-Packed & Satisfying)
I’m continuing my wave of lighter yet satisfying bowls. My last post brought you Greek Meatball Bowls with Tzatziki and Greek Salad, and it was such a hit! Today, we’re switching gears to something smoky, fresh, and bold: Southwest Chicken Salad Bowls. These bowls are packed with crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and warm, perfectly seasoned chicken — all tied together with a bright squeeze of lime.
These bowls are packed with crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, and warm, perfectly seasoned chicken — all tied together with a bright squeeze of lime. And the secret? My Southwest Seasoning Blend, which I’ve been using in tacos for years. It’s smoky, slightly spicy, and herb-forward, and it brings that bold, crave-worthy punch to the chicken and even the corn and beans.
This is exactly the kind of meal I reach for when I want something light but still satisfying — hearty enough to feel like a real meal, but fresh and vibrant so it doesn’t weigh you down. Perfect for a New Year reset, a quick weeknight dinner, or even meal prep lunches that you actually look forward to eating.
Enjoy!
What Ingredients Do I Need?
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts - these keep the bowls light but satisfying. They cook quickly, soak up the Southwest seasoning beautifully, and slice easily for bowl-style meals.
- Green Leaf Lettuce - adds a fresh, crisp base without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s sturdy enough to hold warm toppings but still tender and light.
- Black Beans - bring heartiness and plant-based protein to the bowl. They balance the fresh ingredients and make the meal feel filling without being heavy.
- Corn - adds pops of flavor and texture. Charring it lightly in the skillet brings out its natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with the smoky seasoning.
- Cherry Tomatoes - add brightness and freshness to every bite.
- Avocado - adds richness and helps mellow the spice from the Southwest seasoning. It’s the ingredient that ties everything together.
- Limes - juice wakes up all the flavors.
- Southwest Seasoning Blend - (recipe below) comprised of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt & pepper, and cayenne pepper. This smoky, slightly spicy blend is the flavor backbone of the bowl.
- Olive Oil - encourages caramelization in the skillet, adding even more flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
Substitutions
- Chicken swap: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and stay extra juicy. For a meatless option, use roasted sweet potatoes, cauliflower, or seasoned chickpeas.
- Lettuce options: Romaine, butter lettuce, or spring mix can replace green leaf lettuce. For a heartier bowl, serve everything over cilantro-lime rice or quinoa instead.
- Bean alternatives: Pinto beans or kidney beans can be used in place of black beans.
- Corn swaps: Fresh corn cut from the cob works beautifully when in season.
- Flavor boosts: Add crumbled queso fresco, shredded pepper jack, or a drizzle of chipotle ranch or cilantro-lime dressing.
- Heat lovers: Stir in sliced jalapeños or add an extra pinch of cayenne to the seasoning blend.
Kitchen Tips and Notes
- Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use one skillet: Cooking the chicken, corn, and beans in the same pan builds layers of flavor and keeps cleanup easy.
- Char for flavor: Let the corn sit undisturbed for a minute or two so it can develop a light char.
- Don’t skip the lime: Fresh lime juice is key to keeping the bowl bright and balanced.
- Meal prep friendly: Store the chicken, corn and bean mixture, and vegetables separately and assemble just before serving for best texture.
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RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇
