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Southwest Chicken Salad is one of those meals that always feels fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. It takes minimal time to prepare and is packed with protein, colorful veggies, and a creamy dressing that makes every bite delicious!
Table of Contents
Seeing how much joy a simple meal like my chicken salad with grapes brought me, I was inspired to experiment with more chicken salad recipes. This one has quickly earned a spot in my rotation of high-protein, make-ahead mom lunches!
If you’re looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal, this Southwest Chicken Salad is everything you need in a quick and nutritious meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy easy lunches in minutes. Need an easy shortcut? Instant Pot shredded chicken works perfectly here and makes prep even faster.
- Packed with Protein – Between the chicken, black beans, and Greek yogurt dressing, this salad will keep you full and satisfied.
- Great for School Lunches – It’s kid-friendly and can be packed in a lunchbox for a wholesome meal. Be sure to try some of these cold school lunch ideas!
- Versatile & Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or add extra toppings to suit your tastes.
- No Mayo Option – Greek yogurt keeps the dressing creamy and nutritious, although you can definitely add some if you are a fan!
This salad is a satisfying option that fits seamlessly into your meal routine. If you’re looking for more easy meal prep salad options, check out healthy chicken macaroni salad, Thai noodle salad, and curry chicken avocado salad!
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
- Chicken – Cook and shred or dice your own chicken, depending on your preference, for a homemade touch. For even more flavor, try this Southwestern Yogurt Marinated Baked Chicken as a delicious alternative! You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Black Beans – Rinsing removes excess sodium and enhances texture. If you prefer a different bean, pinto or kidney beans make great substitutes.
- Corn – Fresh, frozen, or canned all work! If using frozen, thaw before adding.
- Cherry Tomatoes – These add a juicy sweetness. Grape tomatoes work too.
- Red Onion – Adds flavor and a little spiciness. Soaking in water for 10 minutes can mellow its sharp bite.
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and a pop of color. You can use yellow or orange bell peppers for variety, but try to avoid green bell peppers as they have a stronger, slightly bitter flavor that changes the overall taste.
- Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a bright, citrusy flavor. Skip if you’re not a fan.
- Greek Yogurt – The yogurt keeps it creamy without being heavy. It also adds some extra protein.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness. This homemade 2-ingredient date syrup is a great alternative.
- Spices – These seasonings enhance the smoky, Southwest-inspired flavor.
Substitutions
If you need to make swaps based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand, here are some great alternatives:
- Chicken – Swap for canned tuna, shredded turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Greek Yogurt – use 1/2 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup mayonnaise for the more traditional dressing.
- Black Beans – Pinto or kidney beans can work as alternatives.
- Corn – Use grilled corn for an extra smoky touch.
- Bell Pepper – Try orange or yellow bell peppers for variety.
- Cilantro – Substitute with chopped parsley if cilantro isn’t your thing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your chicken. You can shred, dice, or chop.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chicken and the vegetables.
Step 3: Make the dressing.
Step 4: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Top the salad with sliced avocado and shredded cheese (if using).
Recipe Tips
- Soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes to make it less spicy for kids.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld.
- For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Crunchy Addition – Toss in crushed tortilla chips or pepitas.
Serving Suggestions
However you serve this Southwest Chicken Salad, it’s sure to be a hit! Here are a few easy ways to enjoy it:
- In a Wrap – Use a tortilla for a quick lunch. Try this 2 Ingredient Quinoa Wrap or this High-Protein Lentil Wrap.
- As a Salad Bowl – Serve over lettuce for a lighter meal.
- With Crackers or Chips – Scoop it up with whole-grain crackers or tortilla chips.
- Stuffed in an Avocado – Hollow out an avocado and fill it with the salad for a nutrient-dense meal. For more serving tips, see avocado for babies.
- Taco-Style – Serve in taco shells for a fun dinner idea. For another speedy taco night option, try these fast rotisserie chicken tacos too!
Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
I don’t recommended freezing, as the fresh veggies will lose texture and become watery upon thawing.
FAQ
Absolutely! Canned chicken works well for convenience, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will give the best flavor and texture.
The salad itself isn’t overly spicy, but the chili powder and smoked paprika add warmth. You can skip the chili powder if serving to kids or add extra spice with jalapeños or hot sauce.
To make this vegetarian, simply swap the chicken for a plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or an extra serving of black beans. Chickpeas also make a great substitute, adding a slightly nutty flavor and hearty texture.
What to make with leftover chicken
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
Southwest Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 12 ounce shredded or diced chicken
- 15 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/2 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt (or 1/2 cup yogurt + 1/4 cup mayonnaise)
- 1 teaspoon smoked parprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, leave out if sharing with little ones)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper, season to taste
- 1 lime
Optional
- shredded cheese
- avocado
Instructions
- Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the chicken and the vegetables.
- Cook the chicken: If you haven't already, cook and shred or dice the chicken breast (or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken). Add it to the salad.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients.
- Assemble the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Top the salad with sliced avocado and shredded cheese (if using).
- Serve: Enjoy right away as a light lunch or dinner, or store it in the fridge for a meal prep option!
Notes
- Soak the onion in cold water for 10 minutes to make it less spicy for kids.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after mixing to let the flavors meld.
- For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
- Crunchy Addition – Toss in crushed tortilla chips or pepitas.
I was never a big fan of salads for lunch but I just started making mason jar salads on Sunday nights so they’re ready to go for the week and it’s so easy!! One of my favorite salads right now has blueberries, walnuts and goat cheese with a honey balsamic vinaigrette. Yum! I’m excited to try this one and so many more!!
Ooh that salad sounds incredible! Honey balsamic vinaigrette is hands down one of my fav. Sounds like you and mason jars have already become well-acquainted ;).
I also enjoy an apple, cheese and grapes. I love to store pasta in mason jars. Easy to see and keep pasta fresh.
pb and jelly
I am totally loving the idea of a salad in a mason jar.. they look awesome! I couldn’t not pin these images!
Thanks, Thalia! Hmm…wonder what happened! Sorry about that. It’s working now 😉
OMG I just love the mason jar look! Its adorb! I’ve been digging sandwiches for lunch lately!
I’ve been packing mason jar salads for work, using homemade dressings. They make wonderful lunch carriers and it’s cheaper than buying salads at the store.
That salad looks delicious, Avocado happens to be an obsession of mine! My lunch normally consists of a frozen Amy’s bowl. I’m trying to eat healthy and her bowls are scrumptious and pretty healthy for a frozen meal. I would LOVE to win this book as have a fridge full of Mason jars 🙂 I’ll be following you on Facebook!
Your salad looks awesome! I loved bringing salads to work, when I worked out of the house. 🙂
I love the idea of mason jar salads but I’ve never actually made them myself. I definitely need to check out this book. The jar salads are the perfect on-the-go meal or lunch idea! Have a great weekend, Min!
My go to lunch is salads. I have never made a mason jar salad. I love the idea of being able to prepare the salad days ahead so I can grab & go as I am heading out the door in the morning. Planning on making your salad this week.