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Deliciously Easy Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad

This fresh, vibrant salad is quick and easy to whip up, packed with flavor and fresh ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded (use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick option)
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper red bell pepper diced
  • 1 avocado avocado diced
  • 0.5 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 lime lime juiced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mixed greens or lettuce for serving
  • Tortilla chips for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Make sure to mix them well!
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This dressing is where the magic happens!
  3. Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to combine. You want everything coated without mashing the avocado.
  4. Step 4: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens or lettuce. This is where it gets beautiful!
  5. Step 5: Top with tortilla chips if desired for that extra crunch. Trust me; it's worth it!

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the avocado might brown a bit, so it's best to add that right before serving!