This colorful Southwest Chicken Salad packs a punch with crispy veggies, juicy chicken, and zesty dressing. It’s healthy, delicious, and super fun to eat!
You can mix and match your favorite toppings, like avocado or tortilla chips, which makes it even better! I love making a big bowl and enjoying it for lunch all week. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: This is the heart of the salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you prefer plant-based, chickpeas or tofu can work great.
Black Beans: They add protein and fiber. If you’re in a pinch, kidney beans or pinto beans are good substitutes. Just make sure to rinse them well!
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but canned or frozen corn are convenient and tasty alternatives. Just thaw the frozen one before using.
Cherry Tomatoes: They give a fresh burst of flavor. You can swap them with diced bell peppers or even diced mango for a sweeter touch.
Pumpkin Seeds: They add crunch and nutrition. If you’re not a fan, swap them for sunflower seeds or skip them for a lighter salad.
How Do I Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
Creating the dressing is a key step for a tasty salad. Here’s an easy approach to make it smooth and flavorful:
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and sour cream for creaminess. Add lime juice for tang.
- Incorporate spices like chili powder and cumin for a Southwest flair. Adjust to taste to suit your preference.
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste it and feel free to add more lime or spices as you like!
Mix this dressing with the salad ingredients thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 green bell pepper or jalapeño, thinly sliced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing everything together, you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend, making the total time about 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and green bell pepper or jalapeño. Add the pumpkin seeds for extra crunch. Mix everything together gently to ensure it’s evenly combined.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well blended. If you like it spicier, you can add a bit more chili powder.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
4. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a sealed container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld, making it even tastier!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a quick stir and serve it cold. You can eat it as a standalone salad, or use it in wraps, tacos, or enjoy with tortilla chips for a fun and easy meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ about Easy Southwest Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or avocado can be fantastic substitutes for mayonnaise. They provide creaminess while adding a healthy twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge, and the flavors will meld beautifully. However, avoid adding avocados or delicate ingredients right away if you plan to keep it for a longer time to prevent browning.
