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Quick Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 8 reviews

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, and fresh veggies all tossed in a creamy, zesty lime and chili powder dressing. Perfect for a fast and satisfying lunch or dinner, this salad can be served on its own, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of fresh greens.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (about 2–3 breasts)
  • 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15.25 oz) corn, drained
  • 1–2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and chopped
  • 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pepitas (or sunflower seeds)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup mayo or Greek yogurt (dairy free or regular)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Mix Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the mayo or Greek yogurt with fresh lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
  2. Mix Salad: In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, chopped jalapeños, quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and pepitas or sunflower seeds.
  3. Combine: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Stir gently but well to ensure every ingredient is coated evenly with the dressing.
  4. Serve: Serve the salad immediately on its own, as a filling for sandwiches, or over a bed of fresh lettuce for a light and delicious meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo to reduce fat and calories and add a tangier flavor.
  • Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your spice preference.
  • The salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days, but best eaten fresh for crisp texture.
  • Add avocado or cilantro for extra creaminess and flavor if desired.
  • For a gluten-free option, serve without bread or use gluten-free bread for sandwiches.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/quick-southwest-chicken-salad-recipe-2/