Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southwest Chicken Salad is an easy and delicious meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The combination of chicken, beans, and vegetables provides a balanced meal that keeps you full for hours. The tangy and spicy dressing adds a delightful kick, making every bite refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as it can be stored in the fridge for several days without losing its flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a hearty side, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (about 2-3 breasts)

• 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can (15.25 oz) corn, drained

• 1-2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and chopped

• ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

• ½ cup red onion, chopped

• ¼ cup pepitas or sunflower seeds

Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayo or Greek yogurt (dairy-free or regular)

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• ¼ teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Add all of the ingredients for the dressing into a medium bowl. Mix until combined.

2. In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, tomatoes, red onion, and pepitas.

3. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and stir to combine.

4. Serve on its own, in a sandwich, or over lettuce. Enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise alternative for the dressing to make the salad completely dairy-free.

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add extra beans or even tofu for a plant-based protein boost.

• Add Avocado: For an extra creamy texture, add slices of avocado to your salad.

• Spicy: If you like more heat, add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. The salad can be eaten cold directly from the fridge or at room temperature.

• Reheating: If you want to warm it up, gently heat the chicken before combining with the other ingredients. However, this salad is best served chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute canned chicken if you’re short on time, but freshly shredded chicken will give the salad a better texture and flavor.

2. How can I make this salad spicier?

To add more heat, try adding extra jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

3. Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?

Yes, frozen corn is a great alternative! Just thaw it before adding it to the salad.

4. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep.

5. What can I use if I don’t have pepitas or sunflower seeds?

You can substitute with any nut or seed you like, such as pumpkin seeds, almonds, or cashews.

6. Can I use a different type of beans?

Yes, you can replace black beans with other beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or garbanzo beans.

7. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and store it in the fridge for a few hours before serving. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

8. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make the salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh.

9. Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Yes, if you’re in a rush, you can use a store-bought Southwest or ranch dressing, but making your own dressing from scratch gives it an extra burst of flavor.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients.

Conclusion

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is the perfect meal for busy days when you want something healthy, tasty, and filling. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s an easy option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish, in a wrap, or over a bed of lettuce, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds with every bite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a flavorful, protein-packed salad that’s sure to please everyone!