This Southwest Chicken Salad is a fun mix of flavors! Juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and zesty dressing come together to make a tasty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
And honestly, who can resist the avocado and corn combo? I love tossing in some crunchy tortilla chips for a little extra crunch. Yum! 🌽🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: I like to use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to save time. If you’re looking for a substitution, canned chicken is also a good option. Just rinse it well to remove any excess salt.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas. They’re also a great way to keep it hearty.
Corn: You can use canned or frozen corn. If you’re allergic or want a different flavor, diced red peppers can work as a fresh substitute. I love using grilled corn for an extra smoky flavor!
Greek Yogurt: This gives a nice tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a dairy-free yogurt. It keeps the dish creamy without the dairy.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice works in a pinch. Just adjust to taste, as lemons are usually a bit more tart.
How Do I Mix the Perfect Dressing?
Making the dressing is simple but important for flavor. A smooth, well-mixed dressing ensures every bite is delicious. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by mixing Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth, making sure there are no lumps. This helps the flavors blend better.
- After mixing, taste the dressing. If it’s too thick, add a bit more lime juice for a lighter consistency.
- Pour over the salad right before serving, and mix gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Southwest Chicken Salad will take you about 15 minutes of prep time. If you have time to chill it in the fridge, allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to mix together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients Together:
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked shredded chicken, black beans, corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, lime juice, taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing you just made over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste! If you think it needs a little more zing, feel free to add more lime juice or taco seasoning. You can also sprinkle in more salt or pepper if that’s your preference.
5. Chill or Serve:
You can serve the salad right away, or for a tastier experience, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors come together nicely!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top before serving for that extra touch. Now your Southwest Chicken Salad is ready to enjoy—dig in!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shredded turkey, roasted vegetables, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you’re using a different protein, make sure it’s fully cooked and seasoned to your liking before adding it to the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, or replace them with additional lime juice and a bit of salsa for flavor. You could also use low-fat Greek yogurt to cut calories.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but for the best texture, add any garnishes like cilantro just before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Corn?
Yes! If you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw it before adding it to the salad. You can do this by running it under warm water in a colander or microwaving it for a minute or two. Make sure it’s drained well to avoid excess moisture in your salad!
