Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

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Here’s a quick and easy Southwest Chicken Salad recipe for a flavorful meal in no time:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips (for crunch)

Southwest Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning (or chili powder, cumin, garlic powder mix)
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the salad ingredients: Shred or dice the cooked chicken breast. Chop the romaine, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the avocado.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, taco seasoning, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, chicken, corn, black beans, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, avocado, cheese, and cilantro.
  4. Dress the salad: Drizzle the Southwest dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  5. Top with crunch: Add tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips just before serving for added texture.

This Quick Southwest Chicken Salad is a perfect mix of savory, creamy, and crunchy elements, with the bright flavors of lime and spices bringing it all together. Great for lunch or dinner!

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