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–+ servings
Southwest Chicken Salad

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad for a Flavorful Twist

Discover the vibrant flavors of Southwest Chicken Salad, a protein-packed and energizing dish perfect for lunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie chicken works well
  • 4 cups crisp greens e.g., romaine, iceberg
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers use a mix of colors
  • 1 medium avocado can substitute with nuts for crunch
  • 1 cup black beans canned, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1/4 cup cilantro finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice adjust to taste
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust based on spice preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar for vegan option
  • to taste salt & pepper essential for flavor enhancement

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • whisk
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash and chop all your fresh ingredients. Rinse the crisp greens and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Dice bell peppers and slice avocado. Rinse and drain black beans and corn. Finely chop cilantro.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, honey, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Blend until smooth and well combined, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Combine Salad Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add greens, bell peppers, avocado, black beans, and corn. Toss gently.
Add Protein
  1. Incorporate shredded chicken into the salad, folding gently to combine.
Dress and Toss
  1. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss gently to coat without breaking the avocado.
Serve or Store
  1. Serve immediately or store in the fridge, keeping dressing separate until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, add avocado just before serving to avoid browning. Store dressing separately to maintain salad crispness.

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