This Southwest Chicken Salad is colorful and full of flavor! It’s packed with grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and crispy tortilla strips, all drizzled with a zesty dressing.
I love how crunchy and spicy this salad is—it just makes me feel good! You can enjoy it as a light lunch or add some chips on the side for a little fun. Just yum! 🌶️🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time. If you don’t have any, cooked chicken breast or even grilled chicken can be a good standby.
Black Beans: This adds protein and fiber. Canned beans are quick and easy, but you can use cooked dried beans or other beans like kidney or pinto if that’s what you have.
Corn: Sweet corn brings a nice crunch. Use canned or frozen corn. If fresh corn is in season, that’s my favorite choice! Just cook and cut it off the cob.
Greek Yogurt & Mayonnaise: This combo gives creaminess. You can use just Greek yogurt for a lighter version or swap yogurt for sour cream if that’s what you have on hand.
Taco Seasoning: You can buy it pre-made or easily whip up your own using chili powder, cumin, and a bit of garlic powder. I like adding a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth!
How Do I Prepare the Perfect Chicken Salad Mix?
The chicken salad mix is where the magic happens, so a gentle touch is key here. You want a mix that’s flavorful yet maintains a nice texture. Start by shredding the chicken finely; it blends better with the other ingredients.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with black beans, corn, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Be careful when mixing; you want to combine them without smashing the beans and tomatoes.
- For the dressing, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the salad and gently fold everything together. This ensures every ingredient is coated without losing its texture. Taste to balance seasoning – this makes a big difference!
How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sweet corn (canned, frozen, or freshly cooked)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Southwest Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want to let the flavors meld, it’s great to refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving. Quick and full of flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, lime juice, taco seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk or a spoon to blend everything until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. Taste your salad and add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
4. Garnish and Serve:
If you want to make it look pretty and add a delightful crunch, sprinkle the pumpkin seeds over the top. If you’re a cilantro fan, feel free to add some chopped fresh cilantro as well. You can serve it immediately, or for a better blend of flavors, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Southwest Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Protein in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute with shredded turkey, grilled shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure it’s cooked and seasoned to your liking.
How Can I Make This Salad Spicier?
If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeño, chopped green chilies, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing. You can also use a spicy taco seasoning instead of the regular one for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this salad ahead! Mix the salad ingredients together, but wait to add the dressing until just before serving. This way, the flavors will stay fresh, and the veggies will remain crisp!
