Name: Quick Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe
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 and chopped; ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered; ½ cup red onion, chopped; ¼ cup pepitas or sunflower seeds; ¾ cup mayo or Greek yogurt (dairy-free or regular); ¼ cup fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ¼ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon salt

Description

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a fast and satisfying meal. Combining shredded chicken with black beans, corn, fresh jalapeños, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad offers a great balance of protein, spice, and crunch. It’s easy to prepare in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it on its own, stuffed in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens for a versatile and delicious Southwest-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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 Ingredients

¾ cup mayo or Greek yogurt (dairy-free or regular)
¼ cup fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the mayo or Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended, creating a creamy, flavorful dressing.
Assemble the Salad: 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. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and stir everything together until evenly coated.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad on its own for a light meal, inside a sandwich for a hearty bite, or over a bed of fresh lettuce to add greens. Enjoy the bright flavors and contrasting textures immediately or chilled.

Notes

Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level.
Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to mayo for lower calories and added protein.
For a dairy-free option, choose dairy-free mayo or yogurt.
This salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days; flavors develop more after resting.
Add fresh cilantro or avocado slices for extra freshness and creaminess.