Southwest Shredded Chicken Salad with Black Beans, Cheddar Cheese and Lime

Prep Time: 15 minutes   |   Cook Time: 10 minutes   |   Total Time: 25 minutes   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Shredded chicken salad recipe lovers will enjoy this fresh Southwest-inspired version packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Tender shredded chicken is combined with black beans, sharp cheddar cheese, crisp vegetables, and a bright lime dressing for a healthy and filling meal. The combination of protein-rich chicken and beans makes this salad especially satisfying, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and color. Perfect for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or potlucks, this easy recipe comes together quickly using simple ingredients. For the best flavor, use freshly shredded chicken and allow the salad to chill briefly before serving.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (450 g)
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz / 425 g)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (110 g)
• 1 cup corn kernels (150 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced (40 g)
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (120 g)
• 1 avocado, diced (200 g)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (10 g)

For the Lime Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (30 ml)
• 1 teaspoon honey (5 ml)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5 ml)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (1 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Shred the chicken, drain the black beans, chop the lettuce, halve the tomatoes, dice the avocado, and finely chop the onion.
2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
3. Combine the salad: In a large bowl add shredded chicken, black beans, cheddar cheese, corn, tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and cilantro.
4. Add avocado: Gently fold in the diced avocado.
5. Toss with dressing: Pour the lime dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
6. Chill briefly: Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes if desired for enhanced flavor.
7. Serve: Serve immediately as a complete meal or hearty side dish.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect and saves preparation time.

Q2: How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss it lightly with lime juice before adding it to the salad.

Q3: Can this shredded chicken salad recipe be meal prepped?
Yes, store the dressing separately and add the avocado just before serving.

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