Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe You Absolutely Must Try

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe is a must-try! A flavorful blend of chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty dressing.

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Prep Time 15

Chilling Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 servings

Course: High-Protein

Cuisine: Southwestern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups Cooked Chicken Breast Consider swapping for grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
1 can Black Beans Chickpeas make a great vegetarian alternative.
1 cup Corn Kernels Fresh, canned, or thawed frozen corn all work well.
1 each Red Bell Pepper Feel free to use other bell pepper colors for variety.
1/2 each Red Onion Substitute with sweet onion for a milder taste if preferred.
1 each Avocado Add just before serving to prevent browning.
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced regular tomatoes can be substituted.
1/4 cup Cilantro Parsley can be used for a different herb profile.
1 cup Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Mexican Blend) Omit for a dairy-free version.
1/2 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt Consider lower-fat options or omit for a lighter dressing.
2 tablespoons Lime Juice Lemon juice is a great substitute in a pinch.
2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil or other neutral oils can be used.
1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Feel free to increase for a bolder taste.
1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust or omit for a milder flavor.
to taste Salt and Pepper Always adjust to taste.
1 cup Tortilla Strips or Crushed Chips (Optional) Omit for a cleaner dish.

Equipment

mixing bowl
whisk
small bowl

Method

How to Make Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add cooked chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Mix gently.
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well combined and coated.
Garnish and Serve: Top the salad with shredded cheese and optional tortilla strips. Serve immediately.
Optional: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Always opt for the freshest vegetables and protein sources to enhance the flavors. Allow chilling for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best taste.

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