This Southwest Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s colorful and packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
I love topping mine with crispy tortilla strips for that extra crunch. It’s like a party in my bowl! 🎉 Plus, it’s quick to make, so I can enjoy it any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, consider using grilled chicken breast. You can even use leftover chicken to cut down on prep time.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you need a substitute, chickpeas work well too. Rinse them both to keep the salad fresh and light.
Corn: Canned corn is convenient, but frozen corn gives a fresher taste. Simply thaw it before adding. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh corn can be grilled for a smoky flavor.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Greek yogurt adds extra protein and a tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, silken tofu blended with a splash of lemon juice is a great substitute!
Salsa: Store-bought salsa saves time, but homemade is even tastier. You can substitute it with pico de gallo or even a teaspoon of hot sauce for an extra kick.
How Do You Mix Everything Without Making a Mess?
Combining your ingredients without ending up with a disaster is key! Start by placing your chicken and veggies in a large mixing bowl. It gives you enough space to toss everything together without spilling.
- Add the black beans and corn next to help balance the weight as you mix.
- For your dressing, whisk together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), salsa, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl. This keeps things neat.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently fold everything together. Use a spatula or wooden spoon for more control.
- Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more lime juice or salt as needed!
How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (can use rotisserie chicken)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup salsa (for flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Southwest Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavors. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a meal anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the shredded chicken, drained and rinsed black beans, drained corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, and diced red onion. Stir everything gently together until well mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), salsa, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix thoroughly until it’s creamy and combined well. This dressing will add lots of flavor to your salad!
3. Combine and Season:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in your large bowl. Gently stir everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing. Taste your salad and adjust any seasoning if you think it needs more lime juice, salt, or pepper. This is your chance to make it just right for your taste!
4. Add the Garnish and Serve:
If you’re using pumpkin seeds, sprinkle them on top of the salad for a delightful crunch. You can serve your Southwest Chicken Salad immediately or pop it in the fridge for up to 2 hours, which will help all the flavors blend beautifully. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Beans?
Absolutely! You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before using to get rid of excess sodium and preservatives.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Sure! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the chicken and Greek yogurt/sour cream. You can replace the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or avocado for creaminess, and add extra beans or some grilled vegetables for protein.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the dressing makes the salad soggy, consider storing the dressing separately and mixing just before serving for the best texture!
What Can I Serve with Southwest Chicken Salad?
This salad is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch or alongside a warm quesadilla for a complete meal!
