Craving a zesty, protein-packed meal? This Southwest Chicken Salad is bursting with bold flavor and fresh ingredients! Made with tender shredded chicken, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, and crunchy pepitas, this Southwest Chicken Salad recipe is perfect for wraps, sandwiches, or served over greens. Tossed in a creamy, dairy-free dressing (mayo or Greek yogurt), it’s a quick, customizable dish that’s gluten-free, filling, and ideal for meal prep. This isn’t your average chicken salad—it’s your new go-to for a vibrant, satisfying lunch or light dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad
This isn’t your average chicken salad. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick & Easy – Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Hearty and Healthy – Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied.
- Customizable – Adjust the heat level, swap in your favorite toppings, or change up the dressing to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly – It stores beautifully in the fridge, making lunch and dinner a breeze all week long.
Ingredients for Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad
You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to whip up this colorful and satisfying salad. Most of them are pantry staples!
Base Ingredients:
- Shredded Chicken – Use rotisserie chicken, slow-cooked chicken breast, or even canned chicken in a pinch.
- Black Beans – Adds a fiber-rich boost of protein.
- Corn – Canned, frozen, or grilled corn kernels all work here.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy, sweet, and colorful.
- Red Onion – Adds a sharp, fresh bite.
- Jalapeños – Go with fresh jalapeños (seeded for less heat) or pickled for extra zing.
- Pepitas – These shelled pumpkin seeds add the perfect crunch. Sunflower seeds are a great sub if needed.
Creamy Southwest Dressing:
- Mayo or Greek Yogurt – Choose Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version.
- Fresh Lime Juice – For that zesty, tangy kick.
- Chili Powder, Garlic Powder & Cumin – Essential spices that bring bold Southwest flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Season to taste.
How to Make Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad
-
Shred the Chicken
Use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Shred using two forks or your hands and place in a large mixing bowl. -
Mix the Salad Ingredients
Add black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, and pepitas to the bowl. -
Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. -
Toss Everything Together
Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. -
Serve or Store
Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later. This salad actually tastes even better after a few hours when the flavors meld together!
How to Serve Your Southwest Chicken Salad
This Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- On a bed of greens – Serve over lettuce, spinach, or arugula for a low-carb meal.
- As a wrap or sandwich – Roll it up in a tortilla or stuff it into a sandwich for a satisfying lunch.
- In a grain bowl – Spoon over rice or quinoa for a heartier dinner recipe.
- With tortilla chips – Scoop it up like a dip at your next game day or gathering.
- Topped on crackers – Makes a great high-protein snack.
- Enjoyed solo – It’s so good on its own, no extras required.
Optional Add-Ins to Make It Your Own
Want to give your salad an upgrade? Try mixing in:
- Cotija or Feta Cheese – Adds a tangy, salty kick.
- Bell Peppers – For more crunch and color.
- Fresh Cilantro – Brings brightness and freshness.
- Avocado – For creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Hot Sauce or Extra Jalapeños – Turn up the heat!
- Dried Cranberries or Chopped Apples – Add a touch of sweetness.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: This salad holds up great in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Just store it in an airtight container.
- Avoid Avocado Too Soon: If adding avocado, slice it fresh before serving to avoid browning.
- Don’t Freeze: Freezing isn’t recommended since the creamy dressing can separate when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just use a dairy-free mayo or vegan yogurt for the dressing and skip any cheese add-ins.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged ingredients to be sure.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Canned chicken works in a pinch—just drain and shred it before mixing.
How do I make it spicier?
Keep the jalapeño seeds in, add green chiles, or mix hot sauce into the dressing.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s an excellent make-ahead lunch or quick dinner option. Just store in the fridge and add any delicate toppings (like avocado or fresh herbs) right before serving.
More Chicken Salad Recipes to Try
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a flavorful meal prep idea, or a fresh and satisfying dinner recipe, this Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad delivers on all fronts. It’s vibrant, filling, and flexible enough to fit your lifestyle and cravings. Give it a try and see why it deserves a permanent spot in your salad rotation.
Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked shredded chicken about 2-3 breasts
- 1 can 15.5 oz black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can 15.25 oz corn drained
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños seeded chopped
- ¾ cup cherry tomatoes quartered
- ½ cup red onion chopped
- ¼ cup pepitas or sunflower seeds
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayo or greek yogurt dairy free or regular
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Shred the Chicken: Use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Shred using two forks or your hands and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Salad Ingredients: Add black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeños, and pepitas to the bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayo (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later. This salad actually tastes even better after a few hours when the flavors meld together!
Notes
- Cotija or Feta Cheese – Adds a tangy, salty kick.
- Bell Peppers – For more crunch and color.
- Fresh Cilantro – Brings brightness and freshness.
- Avocado – For creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Hot Sauce or Extra Jalapeños – Turn up the heat!
- Dried Cranberries or Chopped Apples – Add a touch of sweetness.
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