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–+ servings
Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad That's Quick and Flavorful

Enjoy a lively fiesta of flavors with this Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad, packed with vibrant veggies and a zesty lime dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwest
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast use rotisserie for convenience
  • 1 cup corn kernels can substitute with black-eyed peas
  • 1 large red bell pepper can use yellow or orange peppers
  • 1 small red onion green onions work as a milder option
  • 1 medium avocado can substitute with blackened tofu or tempeh
  • 1 can black beans rinse before adding
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro can replace with parsley if desired
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil avocado oil can be substituted
  • 1 large lime juiced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin or substitute with smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
  • to taste salt for flavor balance
  • to taste pepper for flavor balance
Optional Topping
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese leave out for dairy-free

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, rinsed black beans, and fresh cilantro. Stir until evenly combined.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss together gently to ensure even coating.
  4. Fold in the diced avocado and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, if using. Mix gently to preserve the avocado's texture.
  5. Serve immediately or cover and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

To keep the avocado fresh, add it just before serving or toss in lime juice. You can prepare chicken and veggies ahead of time, keeping them separate until serving to maintain freshness.

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