Quick Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish perfect for a light lunch or easy dinner. Combining tender chicken with sweet corn, black beans, and zesty Southwest dressing, it’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup Southwest dressing

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, and black beans evenly.
2. Step 2: Pour the Southwest dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
3. Step 3: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors, or serve immediately if preferred.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add chopped bell peppers or diced red onion.
• Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor that complements the Southwest dressing.
• Swap the black beans for pinto beans for a slightly different taste and texture.
• If you like it spicier, mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it longer to maintain freshness. When ready to eat, gently toss and serve cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this salad?

Yes, canned chicken is a convenient option that works well in this salad. Just be sure to drain it well before mixing.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld. Add dressing just before serving if you prefer a fresher taste.

Quick Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 91 reviews

A quick and easy Southwest Chicken Salad combining tender chicken, sweet corn, and black beans tossed in a zesty Southwest dressing. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal served cold.

• Author: Yana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Southwestern

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup Southwest dressing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Ensure the chicken is cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces or shredded. Drain and rinse the black beans thoroughly if using canned beans. Thaw corn if using frozen, or drain if canned.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chicken, corn, and black beans. Pour the Southwest dressing over the mixture.
3. Mix and Serve: Toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated with the dressing. Serve the salad cold for the best refreshing flavor.

Notes

• For added crunch, consider topping with tortilla strips or chopped bell peppers.
• This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Use a homemade Southwest dressing for a fresher taste or substitute with a ranch or chipotle dressing for variation.

Keywords: Southwest chicken salad, quick chicken salad, black bean salad, healthy lunch, no-cook salad