Name: Southwest Cobb Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast (diced).; 4 cups mixed greens (e.g., romaine, spinach).; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved).; 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed and drained).; 1/2 cup corn kernels (cooked).; 1 avocado (sliced).; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese.; 1/4 cup sliced black olives.; 2 hard-boiled eggs (chopped).; 1/4 cup mayonnaise.; 1/4 cup sour cream.; 1 tbsp lime juice.; 1 tbsp chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (minced).; 1 tsp honey.; 1/2 tsp garlic powder.; Salt and pepper to taste.

Southwest Chicken Cobb Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that's perfect for any meal. Loaded with diced chicken, fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, and more, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. The zesty chipotle lime dressing adds a burst of flavor that ties everything together. This salad is not only filling but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Serve it with the dressing on the side or toss it all together for a quick and easy meal that everyone will love.

Southwest Chicken Cobb Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that's perfect for any meal. Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.

INGREDIENTS

Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups, diced, providing the main protein source for the salad.
Mixed greens: 4 cups, such as romaine or spinach, forming the fresh base of the salad.
Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved, adding a juicy and sweet flavor.
Black beans: ½ cup, rinsed and drained, for a rich source of fiber and protein.
Corn kernels: ½ cup, cooked, bringing a touch of sweetness and texture.
Avocado: 1, sliced, providing healthy fats and a creamy texture.
Crumbled feta cheese: ¼ cup, for a tangy and salty flavor.
Sliced black olives: ¼ cup, adding a briny note.
Hard-boiled eggs: 2, chopped, for added protein and richness.
Mayonnaise: ¼ cup, forming the base of the chipotle lime dressing.
Sour cream: ¼ cup, adding creaminess to the dressing.
Lime juice: 1 tbsp, for a fresh and zesty flavor.
Chipotle pepper in adobo sauce: 1 tbsp, minced, adding a smoky and spicy kick.
Honey: 1 tsp, balancing the heat with a touch of sweetness.
Garlic powder: ½ tsp, enhancing the flavor of the dressing.
Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a bowl, mix ¼ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp minced chipotle pepper, 1 tsp honey, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Step 2:: In a large bowl or on a platter, layer 4 cups mixed greens. Top with 2 cups diced chicken, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, ½ cup black beans, ½ cup corn kernels, 1 sliced avocado, ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup sliced black olives, and 2 chopped hard-boiled eggs.
Step 3:: Drizzle the chipotle lime dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine or serve dressing on the side.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve this salad as a main course for a satisfying meal, or as a side dish for a larger spread.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Helpful Notes

If you prefer a spicier dressing, add more chipotle pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra beans or tofu.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Ina Garten recommends using fresh lime juice for the dressing to enhance the flavor.
Chef Bobby Flay suggests grilling the corn for added smokiness and depth of flavor.