Southwest Chicken Salad

Introduction

Indulge in the flavors of the Southwest with this delicious Southwest Chicken Salad recipe. Packed with tender chicken, black beans, corn, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a satisfying and refreshing meal perfect for any day of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a great option for a quick and easy meal that is both nutritious and flavorful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and canned goods from your pantry.

How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

3 cups shredded or diced cooked chicken
1 14.5 oz can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
⅓ cup diced red onion
¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
½ cup sour cream
Juice of 1 large lime
1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (used Franks)
½ teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
Add dressing and remaining salad ingredients to a large mixing or serving bowl and toss well. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Chill covered for at least an hour before serving. When ready to serve, stir and enjoy!

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Salad

Serve this Southwest Chicken Salad chilled as a main dish or as a side salad. You can also enjoy it wrapped in a tortilla or lettuce leaves for a refreshing and light lunch option.

How to Store Southwest Chicken Salad

Store any leftover Southwest Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Tips to Make Southwest Chicken Salad

For added crunch, consider adding some crushed tortilla chips or toasted pepitas on top.
Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Make a larger batch of the dressing and store it separately to use for other salads or as a marinade for grilled chicken.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra black beans or tofu for protein. You can also add avocado slices or diced tomatoes for additional freshness.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, canned chicken can be used as a convenient alternative.
Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving? Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, but you can also enjoy it right away if preferred.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the dressing? Yes, Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for sour cream.