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High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad

High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt Magic

This High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad is a zesty, nutritious choice perfect for lunch, packed with flavor and protein.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Southwestern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 lbs Chicken Breast Boneless and skinless for easy shredding
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1 can Black Beans Canned beans are a time-saver
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Finely diced for best texture
  • 1 cup Fire-Roasted Corn Frozen or canned options are great
  • 1 Red Onion Finely diced helps balance flavors
  • 0.25 cup Cilantro Omit if not a fan
For the Creamy Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt Full-fat for richness
  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice Brightens up flavor
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin For earthy warmth
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Adjust based on spice tolerance
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Enhances complexity
  • 0.25 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional for extra heat

Equipment

  • medium pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Stand mixer

Method
 

How to Make High Protein Southwest Chicken Salad
  1. Cook Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a medium pot, season with salt and pepper, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  2. Shred Chicken: Transfer chicken to a mixing bowl and shred into bite-sized pieces using a stand mixer or forks.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In another bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and extra salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, black beans, red bell pepper, corn, red onion, and cilantro into the dressing, mixing gently until everything is well combined.
  5. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate salad for 30 minutes to meld flavors. Serve on whole wheat toast, with tortilla chips, or wrapped in a tortilla.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 33gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Optional: Top with diced avocado for an added creamy texture. Meal prep-friendly, store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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