This Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe takes chicken salad to the next level with black beans, roasted corn, crisp bell peppers, and a creamy chili-lime dressing.
author’s note
Your New Favorite Chicken Salad Twist!
There’s no shortage of chicken salad recipes here—It is satisfying to them, and so do so many of you! When someone on Instagram asked for a Southwest-style chicken salad, I was all in.
I got to work right away, starting with the dressing from my sweet potato burrito bowls. After some tweaking, I nailed it! It’s not just so satisfying—it’s also very straightforward to make.
Plus, you can serve this chicken salad in so many different ways.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe:
- Chicken: Rotisserie is easiest and flavorful, but any cooked chicken works.
- Black beans: Rinse, drain, and dry before adding them in.
- Corn: Fresh, canned, or frozen all work; roasted corn adds extra flavor.
- Red pepper: Chop small for even bites throughout.
- Red onion: Soak in cold salted water to mellow the flavor, or skip if you prefer.
- Cilantro: Chop finely for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Pepitas: Dry-roasted and lightly salted ones deliver the best texture.
Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Dressing
- Mayo: Full-fat for creaminess or light for less fat; a good brand makes a big difference.
- Sour cream: Light keeps it creamy but lighter.
- Lime juice: Fresh lime tastes best; add zest for stronger lime flavor.
- Spices: Chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and paprika give a satisfying Southwestern flavor.
- Salt: Add a little at a time to find the right flavor.
Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe Serving Ideas
- Sandwich: Add lettuce and serve on a buttery croissant or on sandwich bread.
- Lettuce Wrap: Wrap it in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter option.
- Chip Dip: Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.
- Tortilla or Pita Wrap: Stuff into a tortilla or pita for a quick wrap.
- Salad Bowl: Pile it on top of mixed greens for a fresh salad.
- Raw Veggies: Scoop it up with celery sticks or bell pepper slices.
Storage
Store Southwest Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before eating.
More Chicken Salad Recipes:
- Healthy Chicken Salad made with Greek yogurt
- Curry Chicken Salad with golden raisins
- Avocado Chicken Salad with bacon
- Chopped Chicken Salad with a simple dressing
- Pineapple Chicken Salad with honey-roasted almonds
