Quick Southwest Chicken Salad

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!