Name: Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen & thawed); 1 cup diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved); 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lime; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess); Tools Needed:; Large mixing bowl; Cutting board & knife; Can opener; Measuring cups & spoons

Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl

Let me tell you about a dish that has completely stolen the spotlight in our house lately—the Easy Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl. I originally threw this together on a weeknight when I was juggling school pickups, a mountain of laundry, and a toddler who insisted on wearing two different shoes. I needed something fast, healthy-ish, and flavorful enough to break the midweek dinner slump. This salad delivered all that and more.

What I love most about this recipe is how vibrant and satisfying it is without feeling heavy. The smoky chicken, sweet corn, creamy black beans, juicy tomatoes, and zesty dressing all come together like they were meant to be. There’s also just the right kick from the seasoning blend—enough to wake up your taste buds without scaring off the kids. Speaking of which, mine devoured their bowls (with a few extra tortilla chips for crunch), and my husband went back for seconds before I’d even sat down.

It’s since become a go-to for lunch meal prep, potlucks, and even lazy summer dinners on the back patio. What I love is that it’s endlessly adaptable. Toss it in a wrap, pile it over romaine, or scoop it up with tortilla chips. It’s fresh, bold, and comforting all in one bite. Honestly, this bowl has earned a permanent spot in our recipe rotation—and I have a feeling it’ll earn one in yours too.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a bit, allowing the flavors to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild, zesty kick, but it’s not overly spicy. You can always adjust the seasoning to your taste or add chopped jalapeños if you want more heat.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s a great shortcut. Just shred or cube it and toss it with the other ingredients.

What can I serve this with?
It’s fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it in lettuce wraps, over rice, in a tortilla wrap, or with tortilla chips for scooping.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! Just double-check your seasoning and canned ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

What You Need to Make Easy Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

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

1 cup diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Juice of 1 lime

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)

Tools Needed:

Large mixing bowl

Cutting board & knife

Can opener

Measuring cups & spoons

How to Make Easy Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the mayo if using for extra creaminess.

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for the best flavor (optional but recommended).

Serve as a salad, in wraps, over greens, or with chips. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Easy Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl

Use rotisserie chicken for a fast prep option, especially on busy nights.

Add avocado just before serving for a creamy twist.

Don’t skip the lime juice—it really brightens the dish and ties everything together.

Meal prep friendly: Store individual portions in containers for grab-and-go lunches.

Want more crunch? Top with crushed tortilla chips or serve in a crunchy taco bowl.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This is my new favorite lunch! It’s quick, filling, and the flavors are amazing. I make a big batch every Sunday.” – Rachel M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great for busy nights! I used rotisserie chicken and it came together in 10 minutes. Definitely going in the meal prep rotation.” – Jake T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The kids loved it, and so did my husband. I added a little diced jalapeño for a kick. So good!” – Liana K.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “It was tasty, but I think I’ll double the lime juice and spices next time for a bit more zing.” – Amanda C.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Made this for a potluck and it disappeared! Everyone asked for the recipe.” – Jenny R.

Printable Recipe

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