Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad

This Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for any meal. It combines cooked chicken with fresh vegetables, black beans, and a zesty dressing for a delightful and nutritious salad.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (approximately 1 pound)
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro until evenly distributed.

Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, taco seasoning, and lime juice until smooth.

Mix Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Stir everything together until well coated.

Season and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or chill until serving.

Notes:
To ensure this Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad is gluten-free, focus on selecting ingredients that are certified gluten-free, particularly the taco seasoning, which can sometimes contain additives that include gluten. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of taco seasoning, so be sure to check the labels carefully. Additionally, when choosing mayonnaise, opt for a gluten-free labeled brand to avoid any cross-contamination. By making these simple swaps, you can enjoy this delicious and refreshing salad without any gluten concerns.

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings): Calories: 370 | Total Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 60mg | Sodium: 680mg | Total Carbohydrates: 15g | Dietary Fiber: 4g | Sugars: 2g | Protein: 20g

Tips:

  • For added crunch, you can top the salad with crushed tortilla chips or serve it in a tortilla bowl.
  • This salad is versatile and can be served on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or as a filling for tacos.
  • If you prefer a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.