Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad 

This Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables and a creamy, flavorful dressing. It's perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing side at gatherings. Packed with protein and fiber, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  
  

• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  
  

• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  
  

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
  
  

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  
  

• 1 avocado, diced
  
  

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  
  

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  
  

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
  
  

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
  
  

• 2 tablespoons lime juice
  
  

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
  
  

• ½ teaspoon cumin
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: If using cooked chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If starting with raw chicken, cook it thoroughly by grilling, baking, or boiling, then allow it to cool before shredding.
   
   

2. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the red bell pepper and avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
   
   

3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
   
   

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared chicken, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, chopped red onion, and cilantro. Gently toss to mix.
   
   

5. Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and fold it in carefully to coat all ingredients evenly.
   
   

6. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 25g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 20g
  
  

• Fat: 15g
  
  

• Fiber: Varies based on ingredients