Name: Quick Southwest Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
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, chopped); 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes (quartered); 1/2 cup red onion (chopped); 1/4 cup pepitas (or sunflower seeds); 3/4 cup mayo (or Greek yogurt – dairy-free or regular); 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

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, you’ve come to the right place! This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is not your average chicken salad; it’s vibrant, colorful, and oh-so-tasty. I love whipping this up on busy weeknights or when I’m hosting friends for a casual gathering. It’s perfect whether you serve it in a sandwich, wrap it up in a tortilla, or just enjoy it on a bed of crisp lettuce.

This recipe has become a staple in my house because it’s not only easy to make, but it also brings everyone together at the table. Plus, the combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes it so satisfying—trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this salad is perfect for those hectic days when you need a meal fast.
Flavorful: The blend of spices like chili powder and cumin adds a delightful kick that elevates your taste buds.
Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, in sandwiches, or as part of a refreshing wrap—the possibilities are endless!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this hearty salad. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to whip up this Quick Southwest Chicken Salad! You probably have many of these items already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

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, chopped)
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 mayo (or Greek yogurt – dairy-free or regular)
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

Variations

One of the best things about this Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to try:

Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Add more crunch: Toss in diced bell peppers or cucumber for extra texture.
Spice it up: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers.
Switch the dressing: Try using avocado instead of mayo for a creamy and healthy twist.

How to Make Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by adding all the dressing ingredients into a medium bowl. Mix until everything is combined. This step is crucial as it brings all those yummy flavors together! Using mayo gives creaminess while lime juice adds that refreshing zing.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, tomatoes, red onion, and pepitas. This colorful mix not only looks beautiful but also provides plenty of nutrients!

Step 3: Dress Your Salad

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and stir well to combine everything evenly. Make sure each bite is bursting with flavor! This step ensures every ingredient gets coated and deliciously seasoned.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your Quick Southwest Chicken Salad on its own, piled high on sandwiches, or over fresh lettuce leaves. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something quick, healthy, and full of flavor!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

Making the perfect Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is all about the little details that elevate the dish to a whole new level! Here are some pro tips to help you create a delicious and satisfying salad.

Use rotisserie chicken: This saves time and adds flavor. A store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfectly seasoned and can cut your prep time in half, making this meal even quicker!
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding extra chili powder or a dash of cayenne can kick up the heat, while more cumin can deepen the flavor profile, tailoring it to your preferences.
Add freshness: Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten up the salad. Fresh herbs not only enhance flavor but also add a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing.
Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This chilling time enhances each bite, giving you a more robust taste experience.
Make it a meal prep star: This salad keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days. Preparing it in advance means you’ll have quick and nutritious lunches ready to go throughout the week!

How to Serve Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is versatile and can be presented in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or just looking for a satisfying meal at home, here are some fun ideas on how to serve it!

Garnishes

Avocado slices: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and richness that complements the spicy kick of the salad.
Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to customize their salad with fresh lime juice, enhancing flavor even further.
Chopped cilantro: Sprinkling some chopped cilantro on top gives an aromatic finish that brightens up every bite.

Side Dishes

Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a delightful contrast and make a great vehicle for enjoying leftover salad!
Quinoa: A side of fluffy quinoa adds a nutty texture and extra protein, making your meal even more filling and nutritious.
Grilled veggies: Seasoned grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini pair wonderfully with this salad, adding smokiness that complements its flavors.
Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances out the savory elements of your chicken salad, offering a sweet contrast that’s both light and satisfying.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this Quick Southwest Chicken Salad in style! Whether you choose a simple presentation or get creative with garnishes and sides, each bite will be packed with flavor and satisfaction. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep! It comes together in just 10 minutes and can be stored easily for later. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or planning ahead for lunch, this salad holds up beautifully and is sure to satisfy.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The salad can be kept for up to 3-4 days.
Stir well before serving again, as the dressing may settle.

Freezing

This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the mayonnaise (or yogurt) separating upon thawing.
If you want to freeze components, consider freezing the shredded chicken separately and combining it fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

Since this salad is best served cold, simply enjoy it straight from the fridge.
If you prefer warm chicken, reheat the shredded chicken separately in the microwave or on the stovetop before combining with other ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Quick Southwest Chicken Salad!

Can I make Quick Southwest Chicken Salad without mayo?

Absolutely! You can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt (dairy-free or regular) for a lighter option. It still provides a creamy texture while adding protein.

How long does Quick Southwest Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Quick Southwest Chicken Salad will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before diving back in!

What can I serve with Quick Southwest Chicken Salad?

You can serve this salad on its own, as part of a wrap or sandwich, or even over a bed of lettuce. It’s versatile enough to complement various sides like tortilla chips or fresh fruit!

Can I add more vegetables to my Quick Southwest Chicken Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding diced bell peppers, cucumber, or avocado. The more veggies, the better!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this Quick Southwest Chicken Salad! It’s not only quick but also packed with flavor and nutrition—perfect for those busy days when you need something satisfying yet simple. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and remember that cooking should always be fun and personal. Happy cooking!

Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Southwestern

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Description

If you’re seeking a quick and flavorful meal, this Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is your answer! Bursting with vibrant ingredients and spices, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. With tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also versatile—enjoy it in a wrap, sandwich, or on crisp lettuce. This recipe has become a go-to in our home for its ease of preparation and ability to bring everyone together at the table. Get ready to experience a satisfying blend of flavors that will have you making this dish again and again!

Ingredients

Scale

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, chopped)
3/4 cup cherry tomatoes (quartered)
1/2 cup red onion (chopped)
1/4 cup pepitas (or sunflower seeds)
3/4 cup mayo (or Greek yogurt – dairy-free or regular)
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

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Mix until well combined to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, tomatoes, red onion, and pepitas.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.