Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready for a salad recipe that’s not only delicious but also quick to make? Look no further! Today, I’m excited to share with you my secret to the best Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a fresh lunch, this recipe is a game-changer. So, let’s dive in and make this happen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
- Packed with flavorful and fresh ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick family dinner
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Healthy and satisfying
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for the dressing)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for crunch
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s break this down into simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and gently toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle cheese on top and finish with crunchy tortilla strips or chips if using. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
- Customize the salad by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the dressing to your taste.
- For extra crunch, add more tortilla strips or crushed chips.
- Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a quick assembly.
How to Serve
This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways:
- As a main dish for a quick family dinner
- As a side for your next BBQ or gathering
- In a bowl with additional toppings like salsa or guacamole
- As a fresh and healthy lunch option
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to make this salad ahead of time:
- Prepare all ingredients and store them separately in the fridge.
- Dress the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
There you have it, folks! A quick, easy, and delicious Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to check out some of our other amazing chicken salad recipes like the Best Delicious Classic Chicken Salad Recipe and the How to Make the Best Tzatziki Chicken Salad. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!
Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- to taste salt and pepper
Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or chopped
- 1 can black beans 15 oz, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or thawed frozen
- 1 red bell pepper red bell pepper diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1 avocado avocado diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips optional, for crunch
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and gently toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle cheese on top and finish with crunchy tortilla strips or chips if using. Serve immediately or chill until ready to enjoy.
