Southwest Chicken Salad

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Cooked Chicken: For this salad, using grilled chicken gives a great smoky flavor, but you can easily use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Leftover chicken? Perfect—just shred it and you’re good to go!

Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you want a different flavor, try using kidney beans or pinto beans. If you’re aiming for a lower-carb option, you can skip beans altogether.

Corn: You can use canned, frozen, or fresh corn. If you’re feeling adventurous, try grilled corn for a smoky twist. It’s a delightful change in flavor and texture!

Creamy Dressing: Greek yogurt keeps it healthy! If you’re a sour cream lover, go for it. If you want a dairy-free option, use avocado or a plant-based yogurt alternative. You can skip the mayo for fewer calories.

Taco Seasoning: This adds a burst of flavor! If you don’t have it, you can mix chili powder, cumin, and paprika for a quick homemade version.

How Do I Get the Chicken and Veggies Well-Coated in Dressing?

Mixing everything evenly is key to a delicious Southwest Chicken Salad. Here are some simple tips:

• Use a large mixing bowl to give yourself room to toss without spilling.
• Combine your shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and veggies first. This helps you mix well before adding the dressing.
• Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, and then use two large forks or salad tongs to gently toss everything together. Aim to coat each ingredient.
• Don’t forget to taste it! If it seems bland, a touch more lime juice, salt, or pepper usually does the trick.

Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy mixing your fresh flavors!

How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or fresh)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or tortilla strips (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
• 1-2 tablespoons taco seasoning or Southwest seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Southwest Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a fresh and flavorful salad ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

Start by gathering your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and mayonnaise (if you’re using it). Then add the taco seasoning, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.

3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:

Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together carefully, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as you like, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.

4. Chill and Garnish:

Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle some pumpkin seeds or tortilla strips on top for a crunchy finish. Enjoy your refreshing Southwest Chicken Salad!

Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be a convenient substitute! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to reduce the sodium content and to better match the texture. Flake it with a fork before adding it to the salad.

How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?

If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. You can also include a dash of hot sauce or use a spicy taco seasoning to give the salad an extra kick!

Can I Make This Salad in Advance?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just hold off on adding the pumpkin seeds or tortilla strips until right before serving to keep them crunchy!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover Southwest Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To avoid sogginess, try to keep the dressing separate and add it just before enjoying the leftovers!