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chick fil a spicy southwest salad

Chick-fil-A Spicy Southwest Salad

A delicious copycat version of the popular Chick-fil-A spicy southwest salad that combines crisp greens, seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and jalapeños for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Protein Salads
Cuisine: American Southwest
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 2 cups mixed greens romaine, spring mix, or butter lettuce
  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken strips Chick-fil-A style, spicy
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen and thawed, or fire-roasted
  • 1/2 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes Roma or cherry tomatoes
  • 1 jalapeño thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
  • 1/4 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips
  • 1/2 avocado diced
  • 2 tbsp red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp pepitas or sunflower seeds for extra crunch

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Place the mixed greens in a large bowl, ensuring they are completely dry after washing.
  2. Add the corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, and chopped cilantro to the greens.
  3. Gently toss the ingredients to distribute them evenly throughout the salad.
  4. Arrange the shredded spicy chicken on top of the vegetable mixture.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  6. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. Start with half and add more as needed.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
  8. If using optional toppings like tortilla strips or avocado, add these last.
  9. Serve immediately for maximum freshness and crunch.

Notes

  • For authentic Chick-fil-A flavor, season your chicken with a blend of chili powder, paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder before cooking.
  • Make this salad ahead by storing components separately and assembling just before eating.
  • The spice level can be easily adjusted by modifying the amount of jalapeño and the seasoning on the chicken.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted sweet potatoes.