Southwest Express Chicken Salad
A vibrant, flavorful chicken salad with southwestern spices, fresh vegetables, and herbs, perfect for light lunches or casual dinners, appealing to those who enjoy bold, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion in oil until tender but not brown.
- Add chicken, picante sauce, tomatoes, cumin, salt, and oregano; simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Arrange shredded lettuce on 4 dinner plates or a large platter.
- Top with the hot chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
- Serve with additional picante sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, use rotisserie chicken. You can also substitute black beans for some of the chicken for added fiber and a different flavor profile. If you prefer a spicier dish, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley can work in place of cilantro if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or a side of Spanish rice for a complete meal. Consider topping with avocado slices for creaminess. It also works as a filling for wraps or burritos. For a lighter option, serve with a side of fruit salad or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave on medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat until hot. Serve warm over fresh lettuce for best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwest Express Chicken Salad contains roughly 2787 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 302g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (84% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1884mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and store it in individual containers. Just add fresh lettuce and cilantro when ready to eat. This makes it a convenient option for lunch throughout the week.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).