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Spicy Southwest Salad


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  • Author: betty-m
  • Total Time: 150 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

A vibrant salad featuring marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing that packs a flavorful punch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • â…“ cup dill pickle juice
  • 1 tbsp sour cream
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ancho chili powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
  • â…“ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup hot Jalapeno salsa (or any salsa)
  • â…“ cup sour cream
  • Bunch of cilantro leaves (½ loose cup)
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper
  • ½ tsp ancho chili powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 cups spring mix
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup canned black beans, rinsed
  • ½ cup corn, rinsed
  • ½ bell pepper, chopped
  • 12 grape tomatoes
  • ½ cup tortilla strips
  • ½ cup Chili lime pepitas

Instructions

  1. Pound the chicken breast with a meat tenderizer a few times to ensure even cooking.
  2. Pour pickle juice over the chicken and let it marinate for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator.
  3. Mix spices in a bowl for the chicken.
  4. Pat the marinated chicken dry, spread with sour cream, then cover with the spice mix.
  5. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4 minutes, then flip and cook another 4 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Cool the chicken on a plate and prepare the dressing by blending dressing ingredients until smooth.
  7. Toast pepitas in a skillet with olive oil and chili powder for 2-3 minutes, then add lime juice and salt.
  8. In a bowl, combine salad ingredients and top with sliced chicken and drizzle with dressing.

Notes

For best results, allow the chicken to reach room temperature before cooking. Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Marinating and Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg