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Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

4.9 from 95 reviews

This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish combining shredded chicken with sweet corn, black beans, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, tangy taco-seasoned mayonnaise dressing. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a delicious side that brings a burst of Southwest-inspired zest to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (approximately 1 pound)
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, and fresh cilantro until the mixture is evenly distributed.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, taco seasoning, and lime juice until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
  3. Mix Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  4. Season and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for a fresh, zesty experience or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Notes

  • To ensure this salad is gluten-free, make sure to select taco seasoning and mayonnaise brands that are certified gluten-free, as some products may contain gluten or cross-contamination risks.
  • Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving can enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing taste.
  • This salad can be served over a bed of greens or with tortilla chips for added texture.

Keywords: chicken salad, southwest chicken salad, no-cook salad, gluten free salad, taco seasoning, lime dressing, healthy chicken salad, easy lunch recipe