Name: Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southwest
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; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad because it’s a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that comes together in just 10 minutes. The combination of tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, creamy black beans, and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful mix of textures. What truly elevates this salad is the homemade taco-seasoned mayo dressing, which adds a zesty kick with every bite. It’s incredibly versatile too—perfect as a standalone meal, over a bed of greens, or tucked into a wrap or sandwich. Whether I’m preparing it for a quick lunch or a special gathering, this salad never fails to impress with its bold Southwest flavors. Zesty Southwest Chicken 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
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, I toss together the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and fresh cilantro until evenly mixed.
Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, taco seasoning, and lime juice until smooth.
Mix Salad with Dressing: I pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir everything together until well coated.
Season and Serve: I taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Then, I serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: I can omit the chicken and double the black beans or add grilled tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Spicy Kick: For an extra kick, I can add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Low-Carb Option: To make it lighter, I can leave out the tortilla chips and use extra greens for a low-carb bowl.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, I keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. This salad is great for meal prep—store the dressing separately and add just before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! I often use leftover rotisserie chicken, as it adds extra flavor and saves on prep time.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the beans, making it a nutritious choice. For a lighter version, I can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayo.

How long can I store this chicken salad?

I can store the salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for making ahead for quick lunches throughout the week.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the mayonnaise dressing may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! I can customize the salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado to suit my taste.

Conclusion

This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is more than just a dish—it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors that come alive with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, hearty black beans, and a tangy taco-seasoned mayo dressing makes it a standout meal. Whether I’m enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it at a gathering, this salad never fails to satisfy. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold Southwest flavors that I absolutely love.