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Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

Zesty Quick Southwest Chicken Salad for a Fresh Lunch Fix

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant meal packed with protein, gluten-free and dairy-free, perfect for busy days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2-3 breasts Cooked Shredded Chicken Main protein source; use canned for convenience.
  • 1 can Black Beans Rinse and drain well before use.
  • 1 cup Sweet Corn Canned or frozen works well.
  • 2 pieces Fresh Jalapeños Adjust quantity to taste.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Quarter them for a pleasant bite.
  • ½ cup Red Onion Can swap with green onions.
  • ¼ cup Pepitas or Sunflower Seeds Substitute with any nuts if desired.
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup Mayo or Greek Yogurt Use dairy-free for a fully dairy-free dish.
  • 1 piece Fresh Lime Juice Freshly squeezed is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust to preference for spice level.
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder Or fresh garlic, adjust quantity.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for the Southwest flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika Optional but recommended.
  • to taste Salt Adjust based on taste.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine mayo (or Greek yogurt) with lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Whisk together until smooth and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, chopped jalapeños, quartered cherry tomatoes, and chopped red onion. Stir gently to mix.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Fold the dressing into the salad gently until well coated.
  4. Serve immediately on its own, in a wrap, or atop a bed of lettuce. For enhanced flavors, allow to sit for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture.

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