Southwest Chicken Salad

If you are looking for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that captures the vibrant flavors of the Southwest, then look no further than this Southwest Chicken Salad. This recipe highlights the ease of using a rotisserie chicken, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a refreshing lunch on the go. Packed with protein, fiber, and a delightful combination of spices, this salad is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor that will surely satisfy your taste buds.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a fantastic option because it combines a variety of textures and tastes in a colorful and nutritious dish. The creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt offers a tangy contrast to the tender chicken and crispy vegetables. Plus, with the additional ingredients like black beans and corn, this salad is filling enough to be a standalone meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping for lunch, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• ½ cup red onion, peeled and diced
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

How To Make Southwest Chicken Salad

Step 1: Shred the Chicken

Start by shredding the rotisserie chicken using your hands or two forks. Make sure to remove the skin and any bones, leaving you with tender, shredded chicken. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Rinse and drain the canned black beans, then add them to the bowl with the chicken. If you are using fresh corn, you can lightly cook it in a skillet to enhance its flavor, or if you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw it. Add the corn, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro to the bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, combine the non-fat plain Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until everything is fully combined. This creamy dressing provides a rich flavor without the extra calories and is a healthier alternative to traditional dressings.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the beans while combining.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

You can serve the Southwest Chicken Salad immediately or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. This salad is perfect on its own or served with whole-grain tortillas, on a bed of greens, or even in a wrap for an easy meal.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
• Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like diced avocado or chopped bell peppers for additional freshness.
• If you want to add some crunch, toss in some crushed tortilla chips just before serving.
• This salad holds up well for several days in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep!

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans based on your preference.
• Replace corn with diced mango for a sweeter option that complements the spice.
• Add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Use different herbs like parsley or green onions if you are not a fan of cilantro.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Southwest Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When serving leftovers, give it a quick stir as the dressing may thicken slightly in the fridge. Note that the salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to prepare only what you plan to eat within the storage timeframe.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

What can I serve with this salad?

This Southwest Chicken Salad is delicious on its own but can also be served with whole-grain tortillas, on a bed of lettuce, or even tucked into a sandwich or wrap.

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Certainly! You can use grilled chicken breast, baked chicken, or any other cooked chicken you prefer. Just ensure it is shredded or diced for the best texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this Southwest Chicken Salad are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a colorful, flavorful, and nourishing meal that is quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With the incredible mixture of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite for your family and friends. Embrace the boldness of the Southwest in your kitchen with this easy recipe that you can customize to your heart’s content. Enjoy your meal!