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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 29 reviews

A refreshing and flavorful Southwest Chicken Salad that combines tender shredded chicken with vibrant veggies, creamy avocado, and a tangy, mildly spicy dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a party appetizer served with tortilla chips or in wraps.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein 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 mayo 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, combine the shredded or canned chicken, corn, black beans, finely diced red bell pepper and onion, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the diced avocado just before mixing to keep it fresh.
  2. Prepare the dressing: Add the lime juice, mayo or Greek yogurt, and hot sauce or chipotle sauce to the bowl. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  3. Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together. This step is optional but highly recommended.
  4. Serve: Enjoy the Southwest Chicken Salad on its own, with tortilla chips, atop crostini, or wrapped in lettuce cups or tortillas for a lighter option.

Notes

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier, lower-fat version.
  • Add diced jalapeños if you prefer more heat.
  • The salad can be made a few hours ahead but add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Feel free to substitute canned chicken with freshly cooked shredded chicken for a fresher taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Southwest Chicken Salad, chicken salad, avocado salad, black beans, corn salad, easy chicken salad

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