Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (cherry or Roma tomatoes work well)
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion (red or white onion for a mild flavor)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for a burst of freshness)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- If using fresh corn, cook it briefly and let it cool before adding it to the salad. If using frozen corn, allow it to thaw.
- Drain and rinse the black beans to remove excess salt and improve their texture.
- Dice the tomatoes and onions into small, uniform pieces for even distribution in the salad.
- Chop the cilantro finely to enhance the freshness without overpowering the dish.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
- Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), taco seasoning, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more lime juice for tanginess or taco seasoning for extra spice.
Step 4: Combine and Mix
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
- Using a spatula or spoon, toss the salad gently until everything is well coated in the dressing.
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- The salad can be served immediately, but chilling it for about 15–20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve it as a main dish, side salad, or filling for wraps, sandwiches, or lettuce cups.
This simple process ensures that even those with little experience in the kitchen can create a delicious, well-balanced dish without stress.
Notes
How to Tell If the Chicken is Cooked Properly
- If cooking chicken from raw, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
- The chicken should be tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.
How to Prevent Overpowering Flavors
- If the taco seasoning is too strong, start with one tablespoon and add more gradually.
- For a milder taste, mix the seasoning with extra mayonnaise or yogurt.
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
- Too dry? Add more lime juice or a little olive oil for moisture.
- Too spicy? Balance the flavors with extra mayonnaise or a bit of honey.
- Too salty? Rinse the beans thoroughly and reduce added salt.
Kitchen Tips for Efficiency
- Shred chicken quickly using a hand mixer or food processor.
- Pre-chop ingredients and store them in airtight containers for faster assembly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes