This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is fresh and full of flavor! It’s packed with juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing that will make your taste buds dance.
Need a meal in a hurry? This salad can be whipped up in no time. I love to toss it together for lunch or dinner—perfect for those busy days when a tasty bite is a must!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad as it saves time. You can also use leftover roasted chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using seasoned tofu or tempeh in place of chicken.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient, but you can also use cooked dried beans if you have the time. For a different flavor, try pinto beans or chickpeas as substitutes.
Corn: You can use canned corn for speed or thawed frozen corn. Grilled corn adds a nice smoky flavor. Make sure to check for sweet corn varieties for added sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt. Sour cream works as a substitute if you want more tanginess.
Fresh Cilantro: It offers a fresh taste, but if you’re not a fan, fresh parsley can work well too. You can skip it entirely if you prefer.
How Do I Make the Dressing Smooth and Flavorful?
Getting the dressing just right will elevate your salad. Here’s how to ensure it tastes amazing:
- Start by combining the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and salsa in a bowl. Stir until it’s smooth.
- Add the chili powder and cumin, which give it a warm kick. Remember, you can adjust these spices based on your heat preference.
- Finish with salt and pepper. Start with a pinch, taste, and add more if needed.
Chilling the salad helps develop the flavors, so try to resist the urge to dig in right away. It will be worth the wait!
How to Make Quick Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you get to enjoy your delicious salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the shredded chicken, drained black beans, corn, halved grape tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, and diced red onion. Gently mix everything together so it’s well combined and colorful.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is what will give your salad a nice kick!
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, stir everything gently until all the ingredients are well-coated in that delicious dressing. Taste the salad and feel free to adjust the seasoning if you’d like!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors to blend beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy it as a delicious standalone dish, with tortilla chips, or wrapped in a tortilla!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred the amount you need, and it will add great flavor without any extra cooking time.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Yes, you can use sour cream, but if you’re looking for a lighter alternative, plain mayonnaise or even a dairy-free yogurt would work well too! Just keep in mind that this might change the flavor slightly.
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the vegetables may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
What Can I Add to Make This Salad More Filling?
If you’re looking for an extra boost, try adding some diced avocado or cooked quinoa. Both options will add heartiness and additional nutrients to your salad!
