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Zesty Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal, perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or potluck. Ready in minutes, it's a satisfying and versatile dish that's sure to become a favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southwest
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb cooked shredded chicken about 2-3 breasts; rotisserie or leftover
  • 1 can black beans 15.5 oz, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can corn 15.25 oz, drained
  • 1-2 fresh jalapeños seeded and chopped, adjust to taste
  • 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes quartered
  • 1/2 cup red onion chopped
  • 1/4 cup pepitas or sunflower seeds
For the Dressing
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt to taste

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Large bowl
  • Spoon or Tongs

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, rinsed black beans, drained corn, chopped jalapeños, quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and pepitas or sunflower seeds.
  3. Step 3: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently stir with a sturdy spoon or tongs until all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately in lettuce cups, as a sandwich filler, or as a standalone meal. For best flavor, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make it your own: Add diced bell peppers, cucumber, or spinach for extra veggies. Swap chicken for canned tuna, shredded turkey, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Fresh cilantro or diced avocado make great additions. Crushed tortilla chips or chopped cashews can provide crunch.
Tips for success: Chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld, or even better, overnight. Avoid overmixing to maintain chicken texture. Always taste and adjust seasoning (salt, lime, chili powder) to your preference. This salad is excellent for meal prepping.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Flavors often deepen overnight.