Print

Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 126 reviews

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with corn, black beans, red bell pepper, and a zesty blend of spices and lime juice. Creamy avocado and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt bring a luscious texture, while a touch of hot sauce adds a spicy kick. Perfect for a quick, nutritious lunch or a light dinner, served with tortilla chips, crostini, or in lettuce wraps.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Vegetables

  • 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 and Seasonings

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

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, diced avocado, lime juice, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, chopped cilantro, and hot sauce. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
  2. Chill to Blend Flavors: For enhanced flavor, place the salad in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This step is optional but helps the spices and lime juice meld together beautifully.
  3. Serve: Enjoy the salad as is, or serve it with tortilla chips, spread on crostini, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter option.

Notes

  • Add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
  • Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces fat content and adds a tangy flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce or chipotle sauce according to preferred spice level.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.
  • This recipe is very versatile and can be served warm or cold, based on preference.

Keywords: Southwest Chicken Salad, chicken salad, no-cook salad, black beans, corn salad, avocado salad, easy lunch, healthy salad

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