Southwestern Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Southwestern Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or a light meal. Combining tender chicken, sweet corn, and hearty black beans with a zesty southwest dressing, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup southwest dressing

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, and black beans.
2. Step 2: Pour the southwest dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Step 4: Serve the salad cold, either on its own or over a bed of fresh greens.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
• Add diced avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and color.
• Substitute southwest dressing with a blend of lime juice, olive oil, cumin, and chili powder for a homemade option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, avoid adding dressing until ready to serve if storing the salad for longer. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn for this salad?

Yes, canned corn works well. Just drain it thoroughly before adding to avoid excess moisture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge and makes a convenient, tasty lunch option.

Southwestern Chicken Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 111 reviews

A fresh and flavorful Southwestern Chicken Salad featuring tender chicken, sweet corn, hearty black beans, and a zesty Southwest dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be served chilled for a refreshing meal.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Southwestern
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

Dressing

• 1/2 cup Southwest dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked chicken, corn kernels, and black beans. Pour the Southwest dressing over the ingredients.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the dressing.
3. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Notes

• Use roasted or grilled chicken for extra flavor.
• Add diced avocado or chopped cilantro for added freshness.
• Southwest dressing can be substituted with a creamy chipotle or ranch dressing if preferred.
• Can be served over greens or with tortilla chips for a heartier meal.

Keywords: Southwestern chicken salad, chicken salad, healthy chicken salad, black bean salad, corn salad, no cook salad, easy lunch