If you’re looking for an easy meal that is strong in taste and ideal for meal prep This Southwest Chicken Salad recipe will surely impress. It’s loaded with succulent barbecued poultry, beans sweet corn as well as a delicious cilantro lime dressing, this dish is a great way to bring the flavorful tastes of Mexican American cuisine into the kitchen. It’s not only simple and quick and delicious, but it’s also packed with protein-rich ingredients which makes it a great option for a healthy meal or lunch. Let’s look at ways you can bring this tasty Southwest Chicken Salad to your table!

Southwest Chicken Salad

A vibrant, delicious salad made with barbecued chicken, black beans corn and other fresh vegetables served with a smooth cilantro lime dressing. It is perfect for food preparation or for an energizing main dish!

Course Main Course, Salad

Cuisine Mexican-American

Keyword chicken salad, cilantro-lime dressing, healthy salad, Southwest salad

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 29

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 breasts of chicken grilled chopped
1 can (15 OZ) black beans, washed and then drained
1 cup of corn (fresh canned or fresh frozen)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup of cheese shredded (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 Cup fresh chopped cilantro chopped
Tortilla strips (for the garnish and crunch)

For the Cilantro-Lime Dressing

1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
Juice from 2 limes
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
Salt and pepper according to your taste

Instructions

ready the chicken: Grill the chicken breasts on medium temperature until they are cooked to perfection in about 5 minutes each portion. Allow them to rest for several minutes after which you can slice them into thin slices.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with mayonnaise garlic, lime juice and chopped cilantro. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Mix The Salad: In a large bowl, combine corn, black beans, tomato slices, red onion as well as cheese shredded, cilantro.
Toss and serve: Grill the chicken pieces into the bowl, and drizzle it with the dressing made of cilantro and lime. Mix gently and then garnish the bowl with tortilla slices for an extra crunch. Serve right away or keep for the future.

Notes

jalapenos You can add sliced jalapenos for the perfect kick.
Tortilla Strips Incorporate tortilla strips before serving so that they remain crispy.
Flexible: Feel free to include avocado roasted bell peppers or even Quinoa for an extra flavor and texture.
Chicken Leftover: This recipe works fantastic with leftovers of grilling or rotisserie chicken.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 450 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Why You’ll Love This Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

The perfect recipe for Meal Prep: Ingredients included in the recipe for this Southwest Chicken Salad are well-behaved when kept separately and make it an excellent option for meal prep.
Highly Protein and Satisfying The salad is loaded with protein-rich, grilled chicken as well as beans that are loaded with fiber to make you feel full and refreshed.
Fresh and delicious: With the tangy cilantro-lime dressing as well as a mixture of fresh vegetables This Southwest Chicken Salad is full of delicious flavors.
Simple to customize: You can easily modify the recipe to meet your preferences or diet needs.
Simple and quick: With minimal prep time, you’ll be able to have a nutritious dinner ready in less than 30 minutes.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Chicken Breasts Grilled chicken is at the base of this recipe but you can use leftover chicken rotisserie or turkey. If you want to add a vegan twist you can try with chickpeas or tofu that has been seasoned.
Black Beans Black beans are a classic for Southwest flavor, however, pinto or kidney beans are also good equally well.
Corn The freshness of canned or frozen corn can add flavor and texture. Roasted, grilled, or grill-seasoned corn adds an ethereal flavor to your salad.
Cilantro and Lime Dressing: This dressing is crucial for that distinctive Southwest flavor. If you are looking for a vegan option you can substitute Greek mayonnaise and yogurt with dairy-free alternatives or mix avocado and lime juice.

Expert Tips for Success

Make use of fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies like red onions and cherry tomatoes add a different quality and taste.
Allow the chicken to rest: Allowing the chicken to rest between grilling and cooking keeps it moist and tender when served with salad.
Separate dressing for the meal Prep: If prepping ahead, keep the dressing separately in order to keep it in good condition.
Modify the Spice Levels Include extra jalapenos or chili powder if you want higher heat.

Variations and Customizations

add avocado: Cut avocados add creamy texture as well as healthy fats.
Switch up the Cheese: Crumbled feta or cotija cheese adds the dish to an original Mexican taste.
Create it Vegan: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu as well as dairy-free yogurt as well as mayonnaise for your dressing.
Add a grain: The addition of a scoop of quinoa or brown rice can make the salad more nutritious.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage Keep salad dressing ingredients and dressing separately in refrigerator-proof airtight containers for three days or more.
Reheating When you’re keeping leftovers of chicken in the fridge, warm it slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave prior to adding it to your salad.

Serving Suggestions

Its Southwest Chicken Salad is an entire dinner on its own. It can be enjoyed with tortilla chips or some warm cornbread. It is also a perfect accompaniment to Mexican recipes like guacamole, or an icy limeade.

Cilantro-Lime Salad Recipe FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the dressing in advance?

The cilantro-lime dressing can be prepared up to three days ahead. Simply store it in the refrigerator and shake it before using.

Can I substitute black beans?

Absolutely! You can try kidney or pinto beans, or chickpeas for a different taste.

How can I make this salad spicier?

For a bit of heat, mix in sliced jalapeños or sprinkle chili powder on the salad.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Replace the grilled chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise for the dressing.

Conclusion

The Southwest Chicken Salad is a delicious, full-of-flavor option for anybody looking for a healthy delicious, and filling meal. It has the perfect balance of veggies, protein, and flavors that are Southwest-inspired this salad is perfect for any event. Make this dish to see the delicious and flexible salad that could be your new favorite meal prep recipe! Take every bite of this delicious and nutritious dish.

Southwest Chicken Salad with zesty cilantro-lime dressing! 🌶️🥗