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Southwest Chicken Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 75 reviews

A vibrant and creamy Southwest Chicken Salad featuring shredded chicken, diced green chiles, cheddar cheese, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty, spicy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner that packs bold flavors and a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 rib celery, diced

Dressing

  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Make Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, and ground cayenne pepper. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well blended and smooth.
  2. Toss Salad: Add the drained diced green chiles, shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced scallions, and diced celery to the dressing. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. Then add the shredded cooked chicken, gently tossing it to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the creamy dressing and the components are evenly distributed.
  3. Taste & Serve: Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. For an extra spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper if desired. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate to serve chilled later.

Notes

  • Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Ensure canned diced green chiles are well drained to prevent watery salad.
  • Scallions add a mild onion flavor; green and white parts can both be used.
  • For a healthier twist, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • This salad can be served on its own, over greens, or in a tortilla wrap.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Southwest Chicken Salad, shredded chicken salad, creamy chicken salad, spicy chicken salad, quick chicken salad recipe

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/southwest-chicken-salad-recipe/