This colorful Southwest Chicken Salad is packed with fresh veggies, juicy chicken, and zesty black beans. It’s healthy, hearty, and full of flavor!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a salad that feels like a party in a bowl? I could eat this every day, especially on warm days. Just add some avocado for an extra treat! 🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken adds heartiness to the salad. I love using rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. You can also swap it with grilled chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch.
Black Beans: These beans provide protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, try kidney beans or chickpeas for a different taste and texture. Just make sure to rinse them well!
Sweet Corn: Corn adds a nice sweetness and crunch. Frozen corn works great, too—just thaw it before mixing in. If you’re looking for low-carb options, skip the corn altogether.
Greek Yogurt: I prefer using Greek yogurt for a creamy dressing with a protein boost. If dairy is an issue, try using plant-based yogurt or a simple vinaigrette.
Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers are colorful and crisp. You can mix in other veggies like cucumbers or radishes or use jarred roasted peppers for extra flavor.
How Do I Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
The dressing is key to tying all the ingredients together, and it’s super easy to make! Start by mixing Greek yogurt (or sour cream) with lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk them together until smooth.
- Always taste! You might want to adjust lime juice for brightness or add more spices for a kick.
- If it feels too thick, a splash of water or extra lime juice can loosen it up.
How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably grilled or rotisserie)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Southwest Chicken Salad takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately or chilled for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the shredded chicken with the black beans, sweet corn, diced red and green bell peppers, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Use a large spoon to mix them gently until everything is evenly distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it well until it’s smooth and creamy, making sure all the spices are mixed in nicely.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Using the large spoon again, toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. It should all look colorful and appetizing!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste the salad. If you think it needs a little more flavor, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lime juice. This is your chance to make it just right for you!
5. Add Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some pumpkin seeds and chopped cilantro on top for a lovely garnish. You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help all those fantastic flavors meld together. Enjoy your healthy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, such as roast chicken, shredded poached chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken. Just make sure it’s well-cooked and shredded for easy incorporation into the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream works well as a substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly with these substitutions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier! If you’re worried about sogginess, consider keeping the dressing separate and adding it just before serving.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables like diced cucumbers, avocado, or shredded carrots. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to complement the additional ingredients!
