Why You’ll Love This RecipeThis salad is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. The crispiness of the ramen noodles paired with the seasoned chicken and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering dish that you can easily customize. The southwestern dressing brings a punch of tangy and spicy flavors, while the chicken adds a filling protein boost. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to be served as a meal on its own or as a side dish for larger gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken

• 1 package of ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet)

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1 avocado, diced

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Begin by preparing the ramen noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, drain, and let cool completely. Once cooled, break the ramen into small pieces.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, ramen noodles, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and avocado.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.

5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for ramen noodles)

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Chicken: For added flavor, grill the chicken instead of using cooked or rotisserie chicken.

• Spicy Version: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, or roasted sweet potatoes for a plant-based version.

• Noodles: If you prefer a different type of noodle, substitute ramen with soba noodles, rice noodles, or any other variety that suits your taste.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best served fresh, especially with the crunchy ramen noodles. However, if you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately. The salad will keep for up to 1-2 days in the fridge, but the noodles may soften over time. To refresh, simply toss the salad with additional fresh ramen or another crunchy ingredient like tortilla chips.

FAQs

How can I make this salad in advance?

To make this salad ahead of time, prep the vegetables, chicken, and dressing separately and store them in airtight containers. Toss everything together just before serving to ensure the noodles stay crispy.

Can I use other types of noodles instead of ramen?

Yes, you can substitute ramen with soba, rice noodles, or even regular pasta if preferred.

Can I skip the cheese for a dairy-free version?

Absolutely! You can either skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe as written is not very spicy. However, you can adjust the heat level by adding more chili powder, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken with extra vegetables, beans, or tofu for a vegetarian version.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge for up to two days. The noodles may lose their crunch after being stored.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen or canned?

Yes, fresh corn can be used if it’s in season. Just make sure to cook it before adding to the salad.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, feel free to swap the southwestern ranch dressing for a creamy avocado dressing or a vinaigrette if you prefer something lighter.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad is a great standalone dish, but you can serve it with tortilla chips, grilled vegetables, or a side of beans for a more substantial meal.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

It can be! Just store the ingredients and dressing separately and toss together when ready to eat.

Conclusion

The Southwestern Chicken Ramen Salad is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and colors, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or dinner. With its tangy dressing and hearty ingredients, this salad will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a crowd or enjoying it on your own, it’s a refreshing, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.