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Southwest Chipotle Low Carb Chicken Salad - Bold Flavor, Fresh Crunch

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (rotisserie works great)
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional for heat)
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • For the chipotle dressing:
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or avocado mayo)
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (lower carb if using full-fat yogurt)
  • 1–2 teaspoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced (adjust for heat)
  • 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest (optional)
  • To serve (choose one or more): butter lettuce leaves, chopped romaine, cauliflower rice, sliced cucumbers, or low-carb tortillas

Method
 

  1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, chipotle in adobo, garlic, and lime zest until smooth. Taste and adjust the chipotle level and salt.
  2. Prep the chicken and veggies: Add the chicken, red bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Season the base: Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
  4. Add lime and dressing: Pour in the lime juice and the chipotle dressing. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Fold in avocado: Add the diced avocado last and fold gently to avoid mashing.
  6. Taste and adjust: Add more lime juice, salt, or chipotle sauce to your liking. If you want extra creaminess, stir in another spoon of mayo.
  7. Serve: Spoon into lettuce cups, pile over a bed of greens, or serve with cucumber slices. For a heartier low-carb option, try it over warm cauliflower rice.
  8. Chill (optional): For best flavor, chill 20–30 minutes to let the spices meld.