Name: Southwest Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups (about 1 pound) cooked and shredded chicken; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; ½ cup diced tomatoes; ¼ cup finely chopped onion; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

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Southwest Chicken Salad – Big Flavors, Zero Fuss!

Got 10 minutes? Then you’ve got time to whip up this bold, zesty, and ridiculously easy Southwest Chicken Salad! Loaded with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, black beans, and a creamy, spicy dressing, it’s the perfect mix of fresh, hearty, and satisfying. Whether you stuff it into a wrap, pile it onto greens, or scoop it up with tortilla chips, this protein-packed dish is a meal-prep dream and weeknight lifesaver. Bonus? No fancy ingredients—just big flavor with pantry staples. Try it once, and it’ll be on repeat!

Southwest Chicken Salad

Packed with tender shredded chicken, crisp veggies, hearty black beans, and a zesty, spiced dressing, this Southwest Chicken Salad is a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, salads, or even as a dip with tortilla chips!

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Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Keyword: Southwest Chicken Salad

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings:

Calories: 406kcal

Ingredients

2 cups (about 1 pound) cooked and shredded chicken
1 cup corn kernels
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup diced tomatoes
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, and cilantro. Gently toss everything together.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, taco seasoning, and lime juice until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

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Serving Suggestions

Enjoy as a sandwich or wrap filling.
Serve over a bed of fresh greens for a light, refreshing salad.
Use as a dip with tortilla chips for a tasty appetizer.
Eat it straight from the bowl—it’s that good!

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.

For Southwest Chicken Salad

Chicken – Use about 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience!
Corn – Adds a natural sweetness and crunch. Fresh, canned, or frozen (thawed) all work.
Black Beans – Provides protein and a hearty texture. Be sure to drain and rinse them well.
Diced Tomatoes – Brings juiciness and fresh flavor. Cherry or Roma tomatoes work best.
Onion – A little finely chopped onion for an extra kick of flavor. Red onion is a great choice!
Cilantro – For a fresh, herby taste that ties everything together.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – Makes the dressing creamy and rich. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Taco Seasoning – The secret to bold, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. Use store-bought or homemade.
Lime Juice – Brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick. Fresh lime juice is best!
Salt & Pepper – To taste, for seasoning balance.

Enjoy your flavorful Southwest Chicken Salad!