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The culinary world is enriched by a vibrant palette of flavors, and few regions capture the imagination quite like the Southwest. Renowned for its bold spices, fresh ingredients, and a harmonious blend of textures, Southwest cuisine has become a favorite for those seeking both taste and nutrition. At the heart of this culinary tradition lies a dish that embodies all these qualities: the Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad. This salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh produce and hearty components that come together to create a satisfying and nutritious dining experience.

Southwest Chicken Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad, a delightful dish that turns the traditional salad experience on its head. Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, sweet corn, and fresh vegetables, this salad brings together a colorful array of textures and tastes. Each ingredient is carefully chosen for its nutritional benefits, making it a healthy choice for lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, this salad is a nutritious celebration of the Southwest you won’t want to miss.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 avocado, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 lime, juiced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup tortilla strips (for garnish)

1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for dressing)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: If you’re starting with raw chicken, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Let it cool, then shred.

    Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

        Toss It All Together: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is coated evenly.

          Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, and tortilla strips over the top. Optionally, you can add more lime juice for an extra zing.

            Enjoy: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for a chilled version.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings