Yield: 6–8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (about 600 g)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup sweet corn kernels
• 1 large tomato, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Creamy Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste

Optional Add-ins

• 1 avocado, diced
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced bell peppers
• Tortilla strips for crunch

---

Instructions

Step 1

Cook chicken until fully done. Cool and shred.

Step 2

In a large bowl combine:

• Chicken
• Black beans
• Corn
• Tomato
• Onion
• Cilantro
• Jalapeño

Step 3

In another bowl whisk together:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Lime juice
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Step 4

Pour dressing over salad.

Step 5

Mix gently until everything is coated.

Step 6

Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before serving.

---

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Values are estimates and vary with ingredient brands.

---

Storage

• Refrigerator: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Do not freeze, as the creamy dressing can separate after thawing.

---

Serving Suggestions

• With tortilla chips
• In lettuce wraps
• In sandwiches
• Stuffed into tortillas or wraps
• Over mixed greens
• With crackers

---

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes. It saves time and adds flavor.

Q2: Can I make it healthier?
Replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or use half mayo and half yogurt.

Q3: Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add extra jalapeños, cayenne, or your favorite hot sauce.

Q4: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes. It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

Q5: Is it gluten-free?
Yes, if all packaged ingredients (such as mayonnaise and seasonings) are certified gluten-free.

Q6: Can I add avocado?
Yes. Add just before serving to keep it fresh.

Q7: What can I substitute for black beans?
Pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas work well.

Q8: Why is my salad watery?
Tomatoes release moisture. Remove seeds before dicing or drain excess liquid before mixing.

Q9: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken generally provides better texture and flavor.