Sarah BrownBefore diving into the heart of it all, let’s talk about what you can pair with this tasty dish. The Jack in the Box Southwest Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more filling, try adding a side of crispy tortilla chips.
These chips add crunch and soak up any extra dressing, making each bite an adventure. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of cornbread brings a Southern flair that will complete your meal—with a bit of butter, of course.
Ah, the warm sun shining down, children playing, and the tantalizing smell of grilled chicken in the air. You might be thinking, “What’s the star of this summer feast?” If you haven’t guessed it yet, I’m here to convince you that the Jack in the Box Southwest Chicken Salad deserves a front-row seat at your table.
Open that door to flavor; this salad is more than just a health-conscious choice. It’s fresh, filling, and bursting with vibrant ingredients. As a dietitian and food blogger, I love sharing dishes that blend nutrition with indulgence. So let’s explore this salad together!
What is Jack in the Box Southwest Chicken Salad?
At its core, the Jack in the Box Southwest Chicken Salad combines seasoned chicken with a fiesta of fresh vegetables, all layered atop a bed of crisp romaine lettuce. But we don’t stop there!
Add in black beans for protein, a pop of sweetness from corn, and a creamy southwest ranch dressing that ties it all together. It’s a symphony of flavors crafted to satisfy that mid-afternoon hunger without weighing you down.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine taking a bite of this salad. You’ll taste the smokiness of the taco seasoning on the grilled chicken. The crunch of the bell peppers provides a refreshing contrast, while the creaminess of the ranch dressing mellows each bite.
The tomatoes add juiciness that balances everything out. Finally, fresh herbs—if you choose to include them—bring a whole new layer of zest. It feels like a celebration of flavors that dance on your tongue!
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
- Best Raising Cane’s Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- How to make Mexican Rice With Black Beans And Corn
- Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe
Why You’ll Love This?
Why do I have a soft spot for this salad? Well, for starters, it’s versatile. Need a quick lunch? Check! Want a colorful side dish for dinner?
Absolutely! It’s a crowd-pleaser that can adapt to meet your needs. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients—think lean protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins. You can enjoy it without worrying about that guilty feeling afterward. And let’s not forget how easy it is to make it ahead of time. Just whip it up and toss it in the fridge.
Ingredients
Before we roll up our sleeves, here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable salad:
- 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breast (2 pieces)
- 1/2 red onion, peeled and chopped
- 10 tablespoons Southwest Ranch Dressing (preferably yogurt-based)
- 2-3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning or one 1.3-ounce packet of store-bought taco seasoning
- 1 quart grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 bell peppers (any color), seeded and diced
- 5 ounces chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Fresh lime juice, to taste
- 3 jalapeño cheese sticks, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (for a warm spice note)
- 1/4 cup corn kernels (for added sweetness and texture)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breast. You’ll want to rub the taco seasoning all over the meat. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice it thinly.
Step 2: Chop Up the Veggies
While your chicken is cooling, it’s time to dice and chop. Take your bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Don’t rush this part; you want a mix of colors for that visual appeal.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce as your base. Then layer on the black beans, diced avocado, corn kernels, and all those lovely vegetables. Finally, toss in the sliced chicken.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle in the Southwest Ranch Dressing. The yogurt-based dressing adds a creamy texture without the extra calories of traditional dressings. Toss gently to ensure everyone is properly coated.
Step 5: Serve it Up
Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve the salad in bowls, topped with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and the chopped jalapeño cheese sticks for an extra kick. For that crunch factor, add tortilla chips on the side or even crumbled on top!
Tips & Tricks
To ensure your Southwest Chicken Salad stands out, consider these handy tips:
- Cook Extra Chicken: Grill a few more pieces of chicken for later meals. It stores well and can elevate a simple sandwich or wrap.
- Customize Your Dressing: If Southwest Ranch isn’t your thing, try a cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh twist!
- Keep Your Avocado Fresh: To prevent browning, sprinkle a little lime juice on the cut avocado before adding it to the salad.
- Make it a Meal Prep Star: Package the salad in mason jars. Start with the dressing at the bottom, then add your toppings. When you’re ready to eat, just shake it up!
- Add More Crunch: Consider incorporating nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or chopped almonds, in the mix for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
This salad serves a fulfilling purpose, both delicious and nutritious. Here’s a breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg (based on the taco seasoning and dressing)
How Can You Store This Jack in the Box Southwest Chicken Salad?
If you have leftovers (which is hard to believe), store them in an airtight container. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This keeps the lettuce crisp and fresh.
You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for the most satisfying crunch.
What to Do If You Lack Some Ingredients
Sometimes you might find your pantry isn’t cooperating with your culinary ambitions. Here are a few alternatives if you find yourself short on one or two ingredients:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time or chicken breast, grab a store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and saves you time.
- Swap Black Beans for Chickpeas: If black beans aren’t handy, chickpeas can be a great alternative! They add that same protein punch.
- Substitute the Dressing: If you can’t find Southwest Ranch, a zesty Italian dressing works well too. It’ll add flavor with a different spin.
Jack In The Box Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- grill or skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breast (2 pieces)
- 1/2 red onion peeled and chopped
- 10 tablespoons Southwest Ranch Dressing preferably yogurt-based
- 2-3 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning or one 1.3-ounce packet of store-bought taco seasoning
- 1 quart grape or cherry tomatoes halved
- 3 bell peppers any color, seeded and diced
- 5 ounces chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 ripe avocado diced
- Fresh lime juice to taste
- 3 jalapeño cheese sticks chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin for a warm spice note
- 1/4 cup corn kernels for added sweetness and texture
- Tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by seasoning your chicken breast. You’ll want to rub the taco seasoning all over the meat. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice it thinly.
Step 2: Chop Up the Veggies
- While your chicken is cooling, it’s time to dice and chop. Take your bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Don’t rush this part; you want a mix of colors for that visual appeal.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce as your base. Then layer on the black beans, diced avocado, corn kernels, and all those lovely vegetables. Finally, toss in the sliced chicken.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle in the Southwest Ranch Dressing. The yogurt-based dressing adds a creamy texture without the extra calories of traditional dressings. Toss gently to ensure everyone is properly coated.
Step 5: Serve it Up
- Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve the salad in bowls, topped with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and the chopped jalapeño cheese sticks for an extra kick. For that crunch factor, add tortilla chips on the side or even crumbled on top!
Notes
- Cook Extra Chicken: Grill a few more pieces of chicken for later meals. It stores well and can elevate a simple sandwich or wrap.
- Customize Your Dressing: If Southwest Ranch isn’t your thing, try a cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh twist!
- Keep Your Avocado Fresh: To prevent browning, sprinkle a little lime juice on the cut avocado before adding it to the salad.
- Make it a Meal Prep Star: Package the salad in mason jars. Start with the dressing at the bottom, then add your toppings. When you’re ready to eat, just shake it up!
- Add More Crunch: Consider incorporating nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds or chopped almonds, in the mix for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use grilled chicken leftovers for this salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken works just fine. In fact, this is a fantastic way to repurpose meal prep for a quick lunch or dinner.
2. Is the salad gluten-free?
Yes! The salad ingredients are gluten-free. Just ensure the dressing is labeled as gluten-free, especially if you choose a store-bought option.
3. How spicy is the dish?
The level of spice can depend on the taco seasoning you use and how many jalapeño cheese sticks you include. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
4. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein, like grilled tofu or extra black beans, and skip the cheese sticks or use a vegan cheese substitute.
5. How can I make this a heartier meal?
If you want to bulk it up, serve it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice. Both options complement the salad and add extra nutrients while ensuring you feel full longer.
Conclusion
The Jack in the Box Southwest Chicken Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With its dazzling array of flavors, stunning colors, and abundant nutrition, this salad can easily become your go-to dish for gatherings or just a midday treat.
I’m always excited to share my insights and tips because, at the end of the day, food should be enjoyable, accessible, and, most importantly, delightful. As the summer rolls on, keep this recipe in your back pocket. It might just become your new favorite way to savor the sunshine on your plate!
