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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 101 reviews

A zesty and satisfying Southwest Chicken Salad combining tender chicken, sweet corn, black beans, fresh vegetables, and bold spices, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect as a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad can be enjoyed on its own, with tortilla chips, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a refreshing and healthy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cans chicken (drained and flaked) OR 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1/2 cup corn (canned or thawed from frozen)
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1/3 cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
  • 1/4 cup red onion or green onions (finely diced)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • 1 small avocado (diced, add just before serving)

Dressing & Seasoning

  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp hot sauce or chipotle sauce
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red or green onions, fresh cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lime juice, mayo or Greek yogurt, and hot sauce. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
  2. Chill to meld flavors: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for about 15 minutes. This step is optional but allows the spices and dressing to meld beautifully.
  3. Add avocado and serve: Just before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado to keep it fresh and vibrant. Serve the salad on its own, with tortilla chips, on crostini, or wrapped in lettuce cups for a lighter option.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut if canned chicken is not available.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preferred spice level.
  • To keep avocado from browning, add it just before serving and toss gently.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute mayo for Greek yogurt or use a vegan mayo.

Keywords: Southwest chicken salad, chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, no cook salad, southwestern cuisine, avocado salad, easy lunch recipe

Find it online: https://todayquickmeals.com/southwest-chicken-salad-recipe/