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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 6 reviews

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and protein-packed dish featuring shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, creamy avocado, and a zesty cumin-lime dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or make-ahead meal prep that delivers bold flavors with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Base:

  • 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)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Dressing:

  • 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 the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, diced avocado, and dressing ingredients (mayo or Greek yogurt, hot sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
  2. Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the salad for 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together. This step is optional but recommended for better taste.
  3. Serve: Enjoy the salad on its own or pair it with tortilla chips, crostini, lettuce cups, or wraps for a lighter meal option.

Notes

  • Add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Use either canned or fresh ingredients based on availability and convenience.
  • Chilling the salad is optional but helps the flavors blend better.
  • Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce.
  • This salad works well as a make-ahead meal for lunch or dinner.

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