Best 2 Creamy Southwest Chicken Salad Recipes

Indulge in a culinary journey to the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with our creamy chicken salad recipe. This delectable dish tantalizes taste buds with a harmonious blend of shredded chicken, crunchy celery, sweet red grapes, and a creamy dressing infused with the warmth of chili powder, cumin, and a touch of cayenne pepper. Served atop a bed of crisp lettuce, this chicken salad is a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you to the heart of the Southwest.

Accompanying this main recipe are four additional variations that cater to diverse preferences. For a classic twist, try the traditional chicken salad with its timeless combination of celery, onion, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. If you're seeking a lighter option, the Greek yogurt chicken salad offers a refreshing twist with its tangy yogurt-based dressing. For a delightful crunch, the chicken salad with grapes and walnuts incorporates sweet grapes and crunchy walnuts, adding a delightful textural contrast. And for a touch of zesty heat, the buffalo chicken salad packs a punch with its spicy buffalo sauce dressing.

These versatile chicken salad recipes are perfect for meal prepping, lunch boxes, or quick and easy meals. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of the traditional chicken salad, the tangy freshness of the Greek yogurt variation, the sweet and crunchy combination of the chicken salad with grapes and walnuts, or the bold heat of the buffalo chicken salad, there's a recipe here to satisfy every palate. So, grab your apron and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with our creamy chicken salad and its delightful variations.

Let's cook with our recipes!

SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD WITH CREAMY CILANTRO DRESSING

Southwest Chicken Salad with Creamy Cilantro Dressing image

A creamy cilantro-lime yoghurt dressing makes everything come together in this southwestern chicken salad.

Provided by By Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories Side Dish

Time 25m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

5 cups shredded romaine lettuce
2 cups shredded deli rotisserie chicken
1 can (15 oz) Progresso™ black beans, drained, rinsed
1 can (11 oz) whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, drained and rinsed
1 cup chopped tomato
1/2 cup sliced green onions
1/3 cup olive oil or canola oil
1 1/2 cups finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 clove garlic, finely chopped (1 teaspoon)
3 tablespoons lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Mountain High™ whole milk plain yoghurt

Steps:

In large bowl, mix Salad ingredients.
In blender, place olive oil, cilantro, garlic, lime juice and salt. Cover and blend on high speed until smooth. If necessary, stop blender and scrape down mixture. Transfer to small bowl; beat in yoghurt with whisk until smooth.
Before serving, add dressing to salad mixture; toss until mixed well. Serve immediately, or refrigerate up to 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 260, Carbohydrate 20 g, Cholesterol 30 mg, Fat 2 1/2, Fiber 6 g, Protein 15 g, SaturatedFat 2 1/2 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 400 mg, Sugar 3 g, TransFat 0 g

CREAMY SOUTHWEST CHICKEN SALAD

Creamy Southwest Chicken Salad image

From Kingman, Arizona, Vicki Ann Roehrick shares this tasty alternative to taco salad. The creamy chicken mixture is delicious served over lettuce and topped with tortilla chips. If jalapeno-flavored cream cheese and chopped jalapenos.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
1/2 cup chopped jalapeno pepper
1 green onion, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
2 cartons (8 ounces each) whipped cream cheese
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 teaspoon salt
Shredded lettuce
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 can (3.8 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained
3 cups crushed tortilla chips

Steps:

In a large skillet, saute the chicken, jalapenos and onion in butter until chicken is no longer pink. , Add the cream cheese, tomatoes, salsa and salt; stir until blended. Serve over lettuce; sprinkle with cheese, olives and tortilla chips.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 493 calories, Fat 30g fat (16g saturated fat), Cholesterol 156mg cholesterol, Sodium 944mg sodium, Carbohydrate 15g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 39g protein.

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, ripe ingredients will make a big difference in the flavor of your chicken salad. Look for succulent chicken breasts or thighs, crisp vegetables, and flavorful herbs.

Cook the chicken properly: Overcooked chicken is dry and flavorless. Cook it until it is just cooked through, so that it remains moist and tender.

Chop the chicken and vegetables into small pieces: This will make the chicken salad easier to eat and will help the flavors to blend together.

Use a variety of vegetables: Don't just stick to celery and onion. Try adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, or tomatoes.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors: There are endless possibilities when it comes to chicken salad. Try adding different herbs, spices, or dressings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Make sure the chicken salad is well chilled before serving: This will help the flavors to develop and will make the chicken salad more refreshing.

Conclusion:

Southwest chicken salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as a snack. It is also a great way to use up leftover chicken. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, southwest chicken salad is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.