Name: Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 cans chicken, drained and flaked OR 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1/2 cup corn, canned or thawed from frozen; 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained; 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced; 1/4 cup red onion or green onions, finely diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 small avocado, diced (add just before serving); Juice of 1 lime; 1/2 cup mayo or Greek yogurt; 1 tsp hot sauce or chipotle sauce; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 16 reviews

If you’re searching for a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and downright energizing, Southwest Chicken Salad is about to become your new go-to. What I absolutely love about this recipe is how perfectly it captures that Southwest flair—think pops of sweet corn, creamy avocado, and hearty black beans all tucked together with juicy chicken and a tangy cumin-lime dressing. Loaded with lean protein and vibrant veggies, it’s just as at home for a quick lunch as it is starring at dinnertime or fueling your weekly meal prep.

Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every delicious bite of this Southwest Chicken Salad starts with simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one brings something special to the flavor, texture, or color of the dish, making it both satisfying and exciting!

Chicken: Use canned chicken for convenience or shredded rotisserie chicken for unbeatable flavor and tenderness.
Corn: Adds bursts of sweetness and color—frozen or canned both work perfectly (just thaw or drain first).
Black Beans: These bring protein and fiber, plus they soak up the dressing in the most delicious way.
Red Bell Pepper: For crunch and gorgeous color—dice it fine for the best mix.
Red Onion or Green Onions: Brings a little sharpness that’s mellowed by the creamy dressing; use whichever you prefer.
Fresh Cilantro: Gives that lively, signature Southwest pop; chop it just before adding for maximum freshness.
Avocado: Creamy, rich, and best added right before serving to keep it beautiful and green.
Lime Juice: Brightens the whole salad and ties all the flavors together.
Mayo or Greek Yogurt: Your choice for a creamy base—Greek yogurt adds extra protein and tang.
Hot Sauce or Chipotle Sauce: For that smoky, spicy bite (adjust to taste!).
Cumin: Earthy warmth that’s the heart of any good Southwest dish.
Smoked Paprika: Adds subtle heat and a smoky aroma that makes the salad irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: For perfect seasoning—taste and adjust as you go!

How to Make Southwest Chicken Salad

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Get started by draining and flaking your chicken (or shredding that rotisserie chicken), rinsing your beans and corn, and chopping up all those fresh veggies—this step makes the whole salad come together in minutes, especially if you’re prepping ahead!

Step 2: Mix Up the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo or Greek yogurt, lime juice, hot sauce or chipotle sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This punchy, creamy dressing completely transforms the salad with just a few stirs.

Step 3: Combine Everything in a Large Bowl

Add your chicken, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, onion, and cilantro to a big mixing bowl. Pour the dressing all over and gently mix until everything is beautifully coated—make sure each bite gets a little of everything!

Step 4: Add Avocado and Adjust Seasonings

Dice your avocado just before serving and fold it in delicately for that buttery richness—taste and add another squeeze of lime or a dash more salt or hot sauce if you like.

Step 5: Chill (Totally Optional)

If you have a few minutes to spare, cover the bowl and let the Southwest Chicken Salad rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This quick chill helps all the flavors mingle and makes the salad even tastier.

How to Serve Southwest Chicken Salad

Garnishes

No Southwest Chicken Salad is complete without a few extra finishing touches! Top with sliced avocado, additional chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of cotija or feta cheese, or a squeeze of lime—these simple garnishes take both the look and taste up a notch.

Side Dishes

This salad is quite hearty, but it pairs well with crunchy tortilla chips, warm corn tortillas, a cup of spicy tomato soup, or even a simple green salad for a full meal that’s fresh and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Scoop your Southwest Chicken Salad into lettuce cups, stuff it inside halved avocados, tuck it into wraps or pita pockets, or serve it as a fresh dip for veggie sticks and chips at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Southwest Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors only get better with a little time (up to 2 days), though add the avocado fresh each time you serve to keep things vibrant and creamy.

Freezing

While most of the ingredients freeze well individually, the completed salad isn’t ideal for freezing because of the avocado and creamy dressing—they can get watery and lose their lovely texture after thawing.

Reheating

There’s really no need to reheat Southwest Chicken Salad, as it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you do want to warm just the chicken before assembling, that’s always an easy option—just keep the rest of the ingredients cool and fresh!

FAQs

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken brings a delicious smoky note to Southwest Chicken Salad and is a great way to upcycle chicken from another meal.

What can I substitute if I don’t like cilantro?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, try swapping in fresh parsley or even some chopped chives for a hint of freshness without the soapy taste some people get from cilantro.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes—substitute the mayo or Greek yogurt with your favorite plant-based alternative, and be sure to skip any cheese garnishes to keep it fully dairy-free.

How long does Southwest Chicken Salad keep in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to two days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container, though wait to add the avocado until just before serving for the best texture.

Can I make the dressing spicier?

Definitely—add more hot sauce, a sprinkle of cayenne, or even a few chopped pickled jalapenos to give your Southwest Chicken Salad extra heat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to add a bold, healthy twist to your usual meal routine, there’s nothing quite like homemade Southwest Chicken Salad. Give it a try—your taste buds (and any lucky folks you share it with) will thank you!