Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that has become a staple in many households, especially during those warm summer months or at casual gatherings. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, this salad offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it not just a meal but an experience. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, craving a quick lunch, or simply looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this salad is your go-to recipe!
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine a quick meal that’s not just satisfying but also bursting with flavors! The Southwest Chicken Salad is perfect for busy weeknights or fun family luncheons. It’s healthy, packed with protein, and customizable to fit anyone’s taste. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
"This salad is a game-changer for dinner prep! It’s so easy to make and absolutely delicious—everyone loved it!" – Satisfied Customer
How this recipe comes together
This salad is as easy as it is delicious. You’ll mix the chicken and veggies, whip up a creamy dressing, combine them, and let it chill for a while to let the flavors meld. Each step is straightforward, and you won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s flexible! Use canned chicken or rotisserie chicken based on your preference—both options save time and effort.
What you’ll need
To create this tantalizing Southwest Chicken Salad, here’s what you’ll need:
- 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)
- 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
Feel free to swap out any ingredients based on what you have on hand! For example, frozen corn works just as well as canned, and Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative to mayo.
