why make this recipe
If you love Chick-fil-A’s Spicy Southwest Salad, you’ll enjoy making this copycat version at home. This salad combines fresh ingredients with a spicy kick that leaves a wonderful taste. It’s perfect for a healthy meal that is quick to prepare. You can customize it to fit your taste and dietary needs, making it a favorite for everyone.
how to make Chick Fil A Spicy Southwest Salad
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or any vinegar)
- 2 Tablespoons orange juice
- 1 Tablespoon avocado oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 medium chicken breasts (or 3 small)
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 6-8 cups chopped spinach (or romaine)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup black beans
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup pepitas
- 1 cup crumbled tortilla chips (or tortilla strips)
- 1/3 cup Southwest Salad Dressing
Directions:
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Marinating the Chicken: Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix together the white wine vinegar, orange juice, avocado oil, minced garlic, cayenne, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to this mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
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Cooking the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken over medium heat until it is cooked through. This usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
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Making the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach (or romaine), red bell pepper, grape tomatoes, black beans, corn, shredded cheese, and pepitas. Toss the ingredients together.
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Adding Chicken and Dressing: Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle the Southwest Salad Dressing over the salad. If you like, add crumbled tortilla chips or strips on top for extra crunch. Toss everything together before serving.
how to serve Chick Fil A Spicy Southwest Salad
Serve this salad immediately after tossing to keep the tortillas crisp. You can serve it in a large bowl for sharing or divide it into individual plates. It pairs nicely with a refreshing drink or can be enjoyed on its own as a filling meal.
how to store Chick Fil A Spicy Southwest Salad
To store leftover salad, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you used tortilla chips, you might want to add those fresh to maintain their crunch.
tips to make Chick Fil A Spicy Southwest Salad
- For an extra layer of flavor, let the chicken marinate longer, even overnight.
- Use fresh veggies for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
- Consider adding avocado for creaminess.
variation
You can customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as diced onions, jalapeños, or even grilled shrimp instead of chicken. You can also use non-dairy cheese or more vegetables for a vegan version.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time. Just slice it and add it to the salad.
2. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! You can skip the chicken and cheese and replace them with extra veggies, beans, or tofu for protein.
3. Can the dressing be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using it!
