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Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

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Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a fast, fresh, and flavorful dish loaded with juicy chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a zesty Southwest dressing. It’s the perfect light yet satisfying meal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Southwestern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (grilled, shredded, or chopped)
  • 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or thawed)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1/3 cup Southwest-style dressing or a mix of ranch and taco seasoning

Instructions

  1. Place chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl.
  2. Top with cooked chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and shredded cheese.
  3. Drizzle with Southwest dressing and toss gently to combine.
  4. Sprinkle with tortilla strips and cilantro just before serving.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for a more refreshing salad.

Notes

  • Use chipotle ranch or lime vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
  • Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Make it vegetarian by skipping chicken and adding more beans or grilled tofu.
  • Serve in taco bowls or tortillas for a fun twist.
  • Store ingredients separately from dressing for best texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/quick-southwest-chicken-salad/