Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

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Not your average chicken salad! This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad combines shredded chicken with black beans, corn, fresh veggies, and a creamy, zesty dressing. It’s packed with flavor and texture, yet comes together in about 10 minutes. Serve it on its own, in a wrap, sandwich, or over a bed of lettuce—this salad flexes to your preference.

This is a go-to when you want something satisfying and healthy without turning on the stove. It’s vibrant, protein-rich, and full of Southwestern character with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 10 minutes
• High in protein and fiber
• Flexible: serve in wraps, sandwiches, or on greens
• Bright flavors from lime, jalapeño, and spices
• Great for lunches, meal prep, or light dinners

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Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

• 1 lb cooked shredded chicken (about 2–3 breasts)
• 1 can (15.5 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15.25 oz) corn, drained
• 1–2 fresh jalapeños, seeded and chopped
• ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• ½ cup red onion, chopped
• ¼ cup pepitas or sunflower seeds

Dressing

• ¾ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (dairy-free or regular)
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

• In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and salt until smooth.

Step 2: Combine the Salad

• In a large bowl, add shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and pepitas.
• Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Serve

• Serve as is—or in a wrap, sandwich, or over lettuce.
• Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later.

Tips for Success

• Use cooked chicken you already have (rotisserie works great)
• Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños
• For extra freshness, add cilantro or green onion
• If the salad seems thick, stir in a little water or extra lime juice
• Let it chill for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Make-ahead: This salad works well prepared ahead—but add seeds just before serving to keep crunch

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes—just drain it well before using.

Can I make this vegan?
Replace the chicken with a plant-based alternative and use vegan mayo or yogurt.

Can I omit jalapeño?
Yes—skip it or replace with mild bell pepper if you prefer no heat.

Final Thoughts

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is proof that flavor doesn’t need fuss. It transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, satisfying meal you’ll want again and again. The creamy, lime-kissed dressing, the crunch of pepitas, the pop of jalapeño—it all comes together in perfect harmony.

Whether you’re making lunch to-go, packing a healthy dinner, or leveling up your sandwich game, this salad has your back. Whip it up, toss it in a wrap or bowl, and enjoy how fresh, bold, and effortless it tastes.

Share Your Creations

Make this? Tag your colorful bowls with #SouthwestChickenSalad or #BoldLunchBowl on Instagram or Pinterest—we’d love to see how yours turned out!